We are writing to inform you about upcoming regulatory amendments under the Towing and Storage Safety and Enforcement Act, 2021 (TSSEA). This email outlines the key updates to enhance oversight, improve billing transparency for customers, and promote fair and predictable rates for towing and vehicle storage services across Ontario. A detailed summary of the changes is in the attached appendix.
Effective July 1, 2025:
- TSSEA Certificate Fee Increase Freeze: The annual fee increase for all TSSEA certificates is deferred until July 1, 2026.
- Customer Protection Enhancements: Improvements to consent procedures for towing, including restricting consent for non-towing services.
- Record-Keeping Refinements: Tow truck driver run sheets must be maintained during shifts; invoices and consent documentation no longer require tow truck driver’s name; photographs must be taken for specific towing services.
- Maximum Rate Schedule Form for implementation beginning October 4, 2025:
- Introduction of three distinct towing categories – Basic, Intermediate and Advanced.
- New billable items applicable to specific categories of towing, including safe loading and securing, consumables, border crossing, tolls and permits, and after-hours services.
- New billable vehicle storage item – storage of damaged electric vehicle.
The amendments will be implemented in two stages. While the regulatory changes are effective July 1, 2025, there will be a transition period for tow operators and vehicle storage operators to update their Maximum Rate Schedules.
Starting on October 4, 2025, operators can begin to enter their updated maximum rates. The updated rate schedule will take effect on November 3, 2025.
The ministry will issue further correspondence regarding the specifics of the updated Maximum Rate Schedule including guidance documents, timelines, and submission instructions.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Continue checking our websites for more information about towing and vehicle storage:
- Get a towing or vehicle storage certificate | ontario.ca
- Submit tow and vehicle storage rates | ontario.ca
- Towing and vehicle storage requirements | ontario.ca
- Know your rights when getting a tow | ontario.ca
- Towing and Storage Safety and Enforcement Act, 2021
MTO’s Towing Team
Commercial Safety & Compliance Branch |Transportation Safety Division
Ministry of Transportation | Ontario Public Service
1-800-387-7736 | towing@ontario.ca
