Towing Companies: Chicago vs Des Plaines
How do towing companies rules compare between Chicago, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago tow operators need a Public Vehicle license under MCC Ch. 4-340 plus relocator registration. CPD-initiated impounds use the rotation tow contract under MCC 9-64. Private property tows require posted signage and written authorization, with fees capped by the city.
View full Chicago rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Commercial tow operators in Illinois must register under the Commercial Safety Towing Law, 625 ILCS 5/18d-110, and follow rate posting and consumer rights rules. Cook County Sheriff maintains rotation contracts for police-ordered tows on county roads; suburban departments run their own rotations.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| City authority | MCC Ch. 4-340; 9-64 | - |
| License issuer | BACP | - |
| CPD rotation | Citywide tow contract | - |
| Sign requirement | 24x12 inches at entry | - |
| Pre-hookup release | Drop fee only | - |
| State law | - | 625 ILCS 5/18d-110 |
| State agency | - | Illinois Commerce Commission |
| County rotation | - | Cook County Sheriff contracts |
| Suburban tier | - | Local rotation lists vary |
| Chicago carve-out | - | MCC 9-64 city tow license |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
Who tows my car after a CPD impound?
A licensed tow operator on the citywide rotation contract administered through MCC 9-64-160 and the Department of Streets and Sanitation. Vehicles end up at city auto pounds for owner retrieval.
Can a private lot tow without warning?
No. MCC 9-64-170 requires posted 24-by-12-inch signs at every entrance plus, in most cases, a property owner authorization signed for that specific tow before removal can occur.
What if I arrive while my car is being hooked?
If the tow truck has not yet driven away, MCC 9-64-170 requires the operator to release the vehicle for a drop fee no greater than 50% of the regular tow charge.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can a tow operator demand cash only?
No. Illinois 625 ILCS 5/18d-110 requires operators to accept at least one major credit card for vehicle redemption. Cash-only demands at unincorporated Cook County or suburban yards can be reported to the Illinois Commerce Commission.
How do I get my belongings out of a towed car?
Operators must allow owners to retrieve personal property during normal business hours regardless of whether the towing fee is paid. Cook County Sheriff fields complaints when operators refuse, and ICC can fine repeat violators.
What about predatory relocation tows from private lots?
Non-consensual relocation tows from private lots fall under ICC rules at 92 IAC Part 1710, requiring posted signage, photo documentation, and capped fees. Cook County and suburbs may add additional signage and notification requirements above state law.
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