The bill would create an oversight commission for tow companies, set maximum fees, require signage and protect consumers with multiple payment options.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. โ North Carolina state lawmakers filed legislation in the General Assembly aimed at combating predatory towing.ย
House Bill 199, otherwise known as “Nonconsensual Booting and Towing Reform,” was filed in the House on Tuesday. If passed, the bill would create a new commission to regulate towing companies. The nine-member commission would establish maximum fees for towing, booting and storage, and require towing companies to obtain permits.ย
The legislation addresses several consumer protection issues. Under the bill, private property owners must post clear signage at least 24 hours before a vehicle can be towed. Vehicles couldn’t be transported more than 25 miles from where they were towed and towing companies would have to accept multiple payment methods, including cash, credit and debit cards.ย
The bill also creates a statewide database where towing companies must report information about each tow within an hour of completing it. This would allow vehicle owners to locate their towed vehicles by searching the make, model and license plate number.
Violations would carry penalties ranging from infractions with up to $200 fines to Class 3 misdemeanors for repeat offenders. The bill also classifies certain violations as unfair trade practices.
If passed, the commission would be established in January 2026, with most provisions taking effect in July 2026.
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