Can a Towing Company Keep Your Car in Ontario? Know Your Rights

In Ontario, towing companies can legally retain a vehicle until towing and storage fees are paid—but only under specific circumstances and strict regulations.

When Retention Is Permitted

1. Abandoned/immobilized vehicles on public property (per municipal by-laws, typically 48+ hours unmoved)
2. Unpaid parking/traffic tickets (in municipalities with enabling by-laws)
3. Public safety hazards: blocking traffic, fire hydrants, pedestrian dangers, accident scenes
4. Private property: at property owner's request (with proper signage)

Regulatory Framework

The Highway Traffic Act and Towing and Storage Safety and Enforcement Act, 2021 govern the industry. Key protections:

• Maximum fee schedules (regulated rates for tow, storage, collision cleanup)
• Mandatory itemized invoices
• Notification requirements (owner, police within 2 hours)
• Access to personal property in vehicle (no fee)
• Dispute resolution through the Transportation Review Board

If Your Car Is Towed

1. Contact the towing company immediately (police can provide details if unknown)
2. Request itemized invoice
3. Verify fees against regulated maximums
4. Pay to reclaim—or file a complaint with the Transportation Review Board if overcharged or improperly towed
5. Legal advice is warranted for complex disputes

Recent Reforms (2021–2024)

Ontario introduced mandatory tow-truck driver certification, standardized rates, consumer protection measures, and a Towing Advisory Committee to combat predatory practices.

Know the rules: towing companies have rights, but so do you.