Your car got towed from a DFW parking lot. Before you pay $300+ to get it back, know your rights.
Texas towing regulations (Texas Occupations Code Chapter 2308):
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Signage requirements: The parking lot MUST have signs meeting specific size, placement, and content requirements. Signs must be at least 18"x24", at each entrance, and clearly state towing company name and phone number. No proper signs = illegal tow.
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Notification: The towing company must notify the local police within 2 hours of the tow (Texas Occupations Code 2308.253).
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Fee limits: TDLR sets maximum tow fees. For DFW, non-consent tows from private property are capped. Check current rates at tdlr.texas.gov.
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Release requirements: The storage facility must release your vehicle within 1 hour of payment during business hours. They must accept cash, credit card, and debit card (not cash-only).
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Right to a hearing: Under Texas Occupations Code 2308.451-458, you can request a tow hearing at the Justice of the Peace court within 14 days. If the tow was improper, you get your money back PLUS up to $1,000 in damages.
How to fight an illegal tow:
- Photograph the signage (or lack thereof) at the lot
- Request the tow authorization document from the tow company
- File a complaint with TDLR: tdlr.texas.gov/complaints
- Request a tow hearing at JP court within 14 days
- If the tow was illegal, you're entitled to recovery of fees + statutory damages
RECEIPTS REQUIRED: If posting about a towing company, include the lot location, signage photos, the tow receipt, and the company name. Evidence wins hearings.
Sources:
- Texas Occupations Code Chapter 2308
- TDLR — towing regulations and fee caps
- Texas Occupations Code 2308.451-458 (tow hearings)
Photograph the signs before you leave your car. It takes 10 seconds and could save you $300.