Whittier, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issuer
- City manager, appeal to council
- Application filed with
- City treasurer
- Approval standard
- Public need, qualified staff, compliant equipment
- Decision authority
- City manager; final absent appeal
Summary
Whittier does not let anyone open a public tow-truck business by default. Section 5.64.010 makes it unlawful to conduct a motor vehicle towing service available to the general public using 'tow cars,' as defined in the state Vehicle Code, without first obtaining a permit through the process in Chapter 5.64, a discretionary review rather than an automatic license.
No person shall conduct or operate within the city a motor vehicle towing service available to members of the general public involving the use of "tow cars" as that phrase is defined in the Motor Vehicle Code of the state, without first obtaining a permit from the city in the manner prescribed in this chapter.
Full Breakdown
030). 040). 050). The city manager's decision is final and conclusive unless appealed. 060).
Violations & Fines
Operating a general towing service in Whittier without the Chapter 5.64 permit, or continuing after the city manager or council has denied, conditioned or not renewed it, is unlawful under Section 5.64.010. The chapter does not set its own stated fine for operating without a permit, so enforcement of that prohibition proceeds under the city's general code enforcement provisions rather than a penalty specific to this chapter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone start a tow truck business in Whittier?
Where does a tow operator apply for a Whittier towing permit?
What if the city manager denies a towing permit application?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Whittier
California rules heatmap·Compare Whittier to another location·View the California business licensing & operations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Towing Companies in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle towing companies.