Florida Tow Companies Must Comply to New Statute

HB179, approved by the House, Senate, and signed by Governor DeSantis, takes effect on July 1, 2024. Towing companies must review the statute and comply with changes, which include: -- Notice of Claim of Lien letters must be sent within 5 business days, or no storage fees can be charged. Letters must be posted by 11:00 am EST on the 5th business day. -- Notice of Sale must be digitally posted by a third-party. Newspaper ads are required only for tows before July 1, 2024. -- Vehicles under 3 years old must be held 57 days with notices mailed 52 days before sale; vehicles over 3 years old must be held 35 days with notices mailed 30 days before sale. Law enforcement holds are limited to 30 days. -- Rate sheets must be posted and available upon request. A lien release fee up to $250 is allowed. -- Rental agreements are not proof of agency, preventing renters from releasing vehicles. -- Towing companies must accept diverse payment methods.

-- Bond posting procedures and related legal processes are also outlined. Consult an attorney for details. Source: Sunshine State Towing Association