Know Your Rights

Towing Regulations in Ontario

In Ontario, the Towing and Storage Safety and Enforcement Act (TSSEA) establishes a unified provincial framework to protect consumers. Tow truck drivers, towing companies, and vehicle storage providers must abide by a strict code of conduct and be certified. At Nixon's Towing, we fully comply with all TSSEA regulations.

Consent to Tow

• ✔ The Right to Choose: Unless initiated by police (e.g., in a restricted tow zone), you have the right to choose which company tows your vehicle and where it is taken.
• ✔ Documented Consent: Operators must get your consent and provide an Authorization to Tow document containing their name, certificate number, and the destination. Do not sign a blank form.
• ✔ No Unauthorized Changes: Once consent is given, the operator cannot make changes to the agreement. If no consent is obtained, they cannot charge you.

Getting a Tow

• ✔ Direct Routes: Drivers must take the most direct route to your chosen destination.
• ✔ Proper Care: Operators must take reasonable precautions to avoid further damage to your vehicle.
• ✔ Record Keeping: For services beyond a basic tow, drivers must take photographs of your vehicle for their records.

Rates and Payment

• ✔ Transparent Pricing: Operators must give you their maximum rate schedule before towing. They cannot charge more than these published rates.
• ✔ Itemized Invoices: You must receive an itemized invoice detailing each service and total cost before payment is requested.
• ✔ Payment Methods: You have the right to choose your payment method, including credit card, debit, and cash. You must be provided a receipt.

Vehicle Storage

• ✔ Notification: The storage operator must promptly inform you where your vehicle is held and how to retrieve it.
• ✔ Access to Belongings: You are allowed to access your vehicle to retrieve personal belongings during regular operating hours, free of charge.
• ✔ Prompt Release: Operators must make reasonable efforts to organize a prompt release of your vehicle during business hours. (Additional fees may apply outside of regular hours).

Strict Code of Conduct

Tow operators are strictly prohibited from:

• ✖ Soliciting services you have not requested (e.g., approaching you at a collision scene).
• ✖ Making false, misleading, or deceptive statements.
• ✖ Charging for fuel surcharges.
• ✖ Making unsolicited referrals to repair shops or legal services without disclosing their interest.

How to File a Complaint

If you believe an operator has violated the TSSEA rules, you can file a formal complaint with the Ministry of Transportation. Gather all supporting evidence (invoices, photos, consent forms, driver details).

Ministry of Transportation Contact:
Phone: 1-800-387-7736
Email: towing@ontario.ca

Official Resources

For more information, please visit these official Ontario government resources:

• 🔗 Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) Towing Information
• 🔗 Towing and Storage Safety and Enforcement Act (TSSEA)
• 🔗 O. Reg. 167/23: GENERAL under TSSEA (e-Laws)
• 🔗 Consumer Protection Ontario