Key Towing Laws in New Jersey
NJSA 56:13-7
New Jersey consumer protection statutes applicable to towing operations.
Municipal Rate Setting
Each municipality in NJ sets its own maximum towing and storage rates through local ordinance.
Towing Advisory Board
Many NJ municipalities have towing advisory boards that oversee practices and set rates.
Credit Card Requirement
Licensed tow companies in NJ must accept major credit cards for payment.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
For police-authorized tows, the towing company must notify the owner, operator, lessor and lienholder within 30 days of the car arriving at its lot; if it does not, it may charge no more than $750 in storage (N.J.S.A. 56:13-16).
Signage Requirements
For private-property tows, a sign at least 36 by 36 inches at each vehicle entrance must show the parking rules, the towing company's name, address and phone, the towing and storage charges, where to redeem the car, and the Division of Consumer Affairs phone number. Some small residential lots are exempt.
Your Rights in New Jersey
- Right to be charged no more than your town's towing fee ordinance maximum, where one applies, and never an unreasonable or excessive fee (N.J.S.A. 56:13-14)
- Right to pay by debit or credit card if the operator ordinarily accepts that card at its place of business (N.J.S.A. 56:13-16)
- Right to notice from the towing company within 30 days of a police-authorized tow (N.J.S.A. 56:13-16)
- Right to personal property access
- Right to itemized receipt
- Right to file Division of Consumer Affairs complaints
How to File a Complaint in New Jersey
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs
Visit WebsiteSteps to File a Complaint:
- Document everything: take photos of signage, your parking location, vehicle condition, and all receipts.
- Note the date, time, tow company name, driver name, and truck number if available.
- To file a formal complaint, contact the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.
- Consider filing in small claims court if you believe you are owed money for an illegal or improper tow.
Official Sources & Legal References
The fees and rules on this page are drawn from these primary sources - official statutes, administrative codes, and state regulator schedules. We link them so you can verify every figure yourself.
- P.L. 2023 c.132 (approved Aug 7, 2023) - NJ Legislature
pub.njleg.state.nj.us · PDF
Regulated by New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against New Jersey's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
Check your tow bill
Dispute towing fees