The rules for towing a vehicle in Georgia are based on laws that govern three types of vehicle removal. The rules apply to consensual towing, non-consensual towing and vehicle repossession. Someone can legally tow a vehicle when they properly apply the rules, pay all fees and obtain permits.
Towing Rules
Consensual towing rules apply when the owner of a vehicle provides authorization for the removal of the vehicle. In cases where consensual towing occurs there is no need to obtain permits or follow specified regulatory guidelines. The owner can contact a towing company and initiate the towing process if the car breaks down. if an accident occurs or they need to remove the car from a public or private property.
Rules regarding non-consensual towing are applicable in circumstances where the owner of the vehicle does not provide authorization for the removal of the vehicle. The Georgia Public Service Commission governs rules regarding non-consensual towing from a private property. The towing company must have an agreement with the property owner and a filing with Georgia Public Service Commission to legally engage in non-consensual towing on a private property. In cases involving the repossession of a vehicle, the legal owner can tow the vehicle to regain possession due to nonpayment of car notes.
Non-Consensual Towing Permit
Georgia law stipulates rules regarding permits for non-consensual towing carriers such as wrecker service operators and towing companies. A towing company needs a permit to engage in the removal or towing of vehicles that are trespassing on personal or private property and improperly parked vehicles. The towing company must apply to the Georgia Public Service Commission to obtain a permit and must pay an annual filing fee of $300. The GPSC requires proof of insurance and a copy of a Certificate of Insurance for Public Liability and Property Damage as well as a Certificate of Insurance for Liability Insurance Coverage.
Permit Application & Issuance
The $300 filing fee is non-refundable if the GPSC denies the application for any reason including the applicant's withdrawal of the application. The GPSC will issue a permit if the application is complete, the filing fees are fully paid and the applicant demonstrates the capacity to adhere to the GPSC rules and regulations and the laws of Georgia. These rules include requirements to have a secure impoundment facility, insurance and the maximum tariff rate. All non-consensual towing permits obtained from the GPSC must be prominently displayed and kept in the main office of the towing company or wrecker service. Georgia laws require towing and wrecker companies to carry copies of the permits in any vehicle operated under the permit. NCT permits granted by the GPSC are non-transferable to any other company, person or entity.
