Towing rules in Ohio
What the state says about towing, with the page each rule comes from. It's a summary of the published rules, not legal advice, and your city or county can have rules of its own.
Updated October 6, 2026
Tow company licensing
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio regulates tow companies as for-hire motor carriers. A certificate is required to operate within the state.1-3 Check a tow company's registration on the state's registration lookup.
Limits on police and private-property tow fees
In Ohio, the most a company may charge for a tow from a private tow-away zone is $144 for a vehicle under 10,001 pounds GVWR, $247 for 10,001 to 26,000 pounds and $410 over 26,000 pounds. The figures are as of January 1, 2026.4
Storage fees
In Ohio, the most a storage lot may charge is $22 a day for a vehicle under 10,001 pounds, $38 a day up to 26,000 pounds and $82 a day over 26,000 pounds. The figures are as of January 1, 2026.4
Towed from a private lot
In Ohio, signs at least 18 by 24 inches must be visible from all entrances. The tower needs a written contract with the property owner, must photograph the violation, and must notify the sheriff or local police within two hours. If the owner arrives before removal, the vehicle is released for no more than half the removal fee.5
Where to complain
Complaints about a tow go to the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio.3
Get quotes from tow companies in your county
One request instead of calling tow companies one at a time. It's free, and you don't have to hire anyone. Your request may go to contractors nearby.
Sources
Tow companies in Ohio
Ohio has 2,143 tow companies listed, and 1,900 of them hold an active USDOT registration. Browse them by county and call one directly, or schedule a tow and we'll pass it to tow companies near you.
Cite this page
“Towing rules in Ohio.” FindTowingTruck.com, updated October 6, 2026. https://findtowingtruck.com/oh/rules/