This is an operational overview, not legal advice. Confirm your obligations using the official regulation, government guidance, and qualified legal counsel.
Alberta’s Vehicle Towing and Storage Regulation sets requirements for companies providing towing or storage services. The official Government of Alberta overview says the rules are intended to ensure consumers give consent and receive clear information about costs.
Consent records
Obtain consent from the owner or their representative before towing begins, unless the tow is directed by law enforcement or a government authority. Keep the consent in a retainable form, such as written, electronic, or audio.
Written estimates
Provide a clear written estimate of towing and storage costs before taking the vehicle. The consumer must be able to keep a copy, such as a printout, email, or text message.
The estimate must include
- Towing costs and storage rates
- The name of the person who provided consent
- One of that person’s address, telephone number, or email
- The towing business name and address, plus storage business information when applicable
Invoices before payment
Provide an invoice before payment. According to the provincial overview, it must identify who receives it, the business, the vehicle, service locations and times, and itemized costs.
Invoice details include
- Customer and business information
- Vehicle make, model, and licence plate
- Where possession of the vehicle took place
- Relevant transfer details if a storage operator is involved
- Dates, times, and locations of services
- An itemized list of costs
Transportation and access
When mileage is charged, use the most direct route unless the consumer directs or agrees otherwise. Tow only to a location the owner agrees to and notify the owner if the vehicle is moved.
On request, consumers or their agents must be allowed to retrieve personal belongings and inspect the vehicle at no charge, within a reasonable time during business hours.
Three-year record retention
Maintain records of estimates, consents, and invoices for at least three years. A connected digital job file can make those records easier to find, review, and export.
Exemptions
The provincial overview says these requirements do not apply when towing or storage is directed by law enforcement, a municipality or other government authority, or the owner of private property where the vehicle is located.
Other listed exemptions include certain seasonal or long-term storage situations and services with no towing or storage charges.
Record why a different workflow applies. Do not rely on a software label as a legal determination.
Review current Government of Alberta guidance and linked compliance resources before changing your company process.