Charlotte Considers Ban on Towing Occupied Vehicles, 24-Hour Authorization Rule

Tow trucks are parked outside a towing and vehicle storage facility in Charlotte, North Carolina, where city officials are considering changes to private-property towing regulations.

Charlotte, North Carolina, is considering changes to its private-property towing ordinance that could affect how towers conduct business. Proposals under review by the City Council’s Safety Committee include prohibiting the towing of occupied vehicles and requiring written property-owner authorization for every tow, including overnight removals.

Current rules require written authorization between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., leaving overnight towing without the same requirement. Supporters say extending authorization requirements would create accountability and help prevent disputed removals.

A ban on towing occupied vehicles would also clarify safety expectations for drivers. North Carolina law already holds towers potentially liable for injuries caused intentionally or negligently during vehicle removal.

North Carolina law does require proper signage, limits towing distances under certain conditions and protects motorists' right to retrieve vehicles while disputing charges.

No changes have been approved. Any proposed revisions must advance from the committee to the full City Council.