Philly tow drivers must provide photo proof of violation under new law

Philadelphia tow truck drivers will soon be subject to more accountability under a new law.

On July 8, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed into law H.B. 816, which was authored by state Rep. Jose Giral.

The new legislation requires tow truck operators in Philadelphia to take photographic evidence of the violation for which they are towing or removing a vehicle. The photos must include the vehicle license plate, any signage related to parking, and the vehicle committing the violation.

Tow companies will be required to retain the digital photos for 60 days, or until the vehicle is claimed, and to present the photos free of charge to the vehicle owner on request.

“I am pleased to see this commonsense measure signed into law,” said Giral. “This will benefit everyone involved, the courts, drivers and towing companies, and will ensure greater accountability and transparency in our city.”

The new law will go into effect in September 2024.