Vineland, NJ Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)

Vineland City Code § 665-2 requires prospective tow list operators to hold a duly licensed towing facility or auto repair facility meeting Chapter 665's standards. Under § 665-3, the written application to the Director of the Department of Licenses and Inspections must disclose the operator's business address, insurance carrier and policy number, towing and storage fees, and the type and condition of each tow vehicle, plus a plot plan showing storage areas, driveways, and rights-of-way. Section 665-3E bars issuing a license unless the towing facility sits in a zoning district where the use is permitted under Chapter 425, Land Use, or the operator has obtained a use variance.

Section 665-3G requires a letter of good conduct from the Vineland Police Department confirming valid driver's licenses and no relevant criminal convictions, plus zoning and property-maintenance compliance letters. Under § 665-3J, the Director conducts a background investigation covering the facility, vehicles, and operation, checking compliance with N.J.S.A. 40:48-2.49b. Insurance under § 665-5 must include automobile liability of at least $500,000, garage keepers' legal liability of at least $100,000 per location, and garage liability of at least $1,000,000 combined single limit, with a certificate naming the City as certificate holder.

Section 665-6 requires City Council approval by resolution before the Director issues a license certificate. Section 665-7 sets a two-year license term running January 1 to December 31, with renewal applications due by December 1 of the expiring year; late applications are rejected outright. Denial of a license can be appealed to City Council within 30 days under § 665-4.