Licensed Tow Companies
To legally provide towing services in Seattle, a towing company must have both a Seattle business license tax certificate and a regulatory towing license.
Towing license cost
A tow company license costs $525 per year. The license is valid for the calendar year issued: Jan. 1 through Dec. 31. The license fee cost is not prorated for partial-year licenses.
Towing license requirements
Before filling out the tow company license application, gather the following information:
- State and local business registration numbers.
- Physical addresses of secured areas used for vehicle storage.
- Class, license plate number and VIN for each tow truck.
- Impound rates you charge.
- Copy of state inspection report for each storage lot.
- Copy of state permit for each tow truck.
If any business information provided on your application changes, you must inform the City of Seattle within seven days. The City of Seattle caps what you can charge for impounding from private property.
Submit a tow license application
To apply for a regulatory towing license, fill out the tow company license application. Mail the completed tow company license application and documents to:
Consumer Protection
ATTN: Tow Company License
P.O. Box 34214
Seattle, WA 98124-4214
Please do not send in license payment with your license application. Once your application is complete and approved by the City of Seattle, you will receive an invoice for the $525 regulatory license fee. Payment received prior to receiving an invoice will be returned to the towing company.
If you would like to submit a tow company application in person, email consumerprotection@seattle.gov or call Inspector Donald Bolgiano at (206) 615-1755.
Read the code
You can read the Seattle Municipal Code Chapter 6.214 for legal details about tow company licenses and regulations. Director's rules also provide information about regulations relating to impounds.