Yucaipa, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Towing Companies (2026)

Chapter 10.20 of the Yucaipa Municipal Code, Vehicle Towing, was adopted by Ord. 456 in 2025. Section 10.20.010 states its purpose: to establish towing regulations for non-consensual towing services initiated by the Yucaipa Police Department or other authorized agents, and to create a rotational tow program with equitable and consistent standards.

Section 10.20.020 is the gate: no person can provide towing services for the city or its Police Department without first obtaining approval from the city's Planning Division, complying with the chapter, and entering into a towing services agreement. Under § 10.20.040, the city distributes a notice requesting qualifications following the procedures in § 2.24.150 of the code, with specifications, terms, conditions and performance standards and a procedure for evaluating proposals. The City Council then awards an agreement by resolution to the provider it determines is the most qualified.

Section 10.20.030 provides that if the city selects more than one towing provider, the City Manager or designee develops a rotation program and can promulgate additional rules and specifications for it.

Section 10.20.050 requires the agreement, in a form approved by the City Attorney, within thirty (30) calendar days after selection. At a minimum it covers requirements and performance standards for tow vehicles, equipment, storage facilities, drivers and non-consensual towing services; a defend, hold harmless and indemnify provision; minimum insurance to the satisfaction of the Risk Manager; grounds for suspension and termination, with the city free to terminate any agreement at any time without cause on written notice; and maximum rates and charges. Rates are therefore set in each agreement, not printed in the chapter. Under § 10.20.060, the city can run its own towing operation or storage yard in addition to or instead of selected providers.