Tow industry compliance and enforcement efforts continue
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 12:40 p.m.
(Ottawa)—The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) continues its commitment to promoting public safety, consumer protection, and accountability within Ottawa’s towing and vehicle storage industry through proactive enforcement and compliance initiatives under the Towing and Storage Safety and Enforcement Act (TSSEA) and the Highway Traffic Act (HTA).
During the second quarter of 2026, from April 1 to June 30, OPS Tow Enforcement Officers conducted numerous inspections, investigations, and compliance initiatives across Ottawa.
These enforcement efforts resulted in 76 charges, including:
- 23 TSSEA charges
- 14 TSSEA and Ontario Regulation charges issued to vehicle storage yards
- 39 HTA charges
TSSEA-related charges included tow yards failing to meet mandatory signage requirements. During inspections, some operators were found to have incomplete signage missing required information, while others had no signage posted at the main entrance, as required.
These signage requirements are in place to support transparency and consumer protection. When a vehicle has been towed, clear and accurate signage helps members of the public locate the tow yard, obtain essential contact information, and arrange for the release of their vehicle.
HTA-related charges included tow truck drivers failing to complete mandatory daily inspection logs, failing to surrender required documents when requested, and operating vehicles with insecure loads.
These requirements help ensure tow trucks are safe to operate, drivers are meeting their legal obligations, and loads are properly secured to prevent roadway hazards. Enforcement of these standards supports safer roads and promotes responsible towing practices.
In addition to enforcement activity, officers:
- Removed six tow trucks from service due to safety or compliance concerns
- Attended 32 Provincial Offences Act court appearances
- Conducted four vehicle storage yard inspections
While enforcement numbers experienced a slight decrease compared to previous quarters, this reduction reflects improved industry compliance and competing summer operational priorities. The Ottawa Police Service continues to observe positive trends in regulatory compliance among licensed tow operators and storage providers.
“The goal of our enforcement program is not simply to issue charges, but to ensure the towing industry operates safely, professionally, and in accordance with provincial legislation,” said Cst. Jason Killeen, Ottawa Police Service. “Improved compliance is a positive outcome for consumers, the industry, and public safety.”
The OPS remains committed to enforcing provincial towing legislation, addressing complaints from the public, and working collaboratively with industry partners to maintain high standards of professionalism and accountability.
Members of the public are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their rights when dealing with tow operators and vehicle storage providers and to report suspected violations to the appropriate authorities.
For more information on consumer rights and towing regulations in Ontario, visit the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario website.
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