# Local Government (GLG)

## Title 11. Powers of Code Counties

### Subtitle 5. Towing Companies

#### Section 11-501

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) "Nonconsensual towing" means towing a motor vehicle from private property without the consent of the motor vehicle's owner or operator.

(c) "Tow truck" has the meaning stated in Sec. 13-920 of the Transportation Article.

(d) "Towing" means the moving or removal of a motor vehicle by a tow truck.

(e) "Towing company" means a person that provides towing services.

(f) "Towing service" means the operation of removing or towing motor vehicles.

#### Section 11-502

This subtitle applies  only in code counties in the Southern Maryland class, as established in Sec. 9-302 of this article.

#### Section 11-503

The county commissioners may adopt rules and regulations for the licensing, maintenance, and operation of towing companies in the county to:

(1) promote transparency, accountability, and uniformity regarding nonconsensual towing practices;

(2) safeguard the public health and welfare;

(3) promote good civic design; and

(4) promote the health, safety, morals, order, convenience, and prosperity of the community.

#### Section 11-504

The rules and regulations adopted by the county commissioners may:

(1) require a person who maintains or operates a towing company in the county to obtain a license from the county; and

(2) specify a reasonable fee for the license.

#### Section 11-505

(a)

  (1) Before adopting rules and regulations under Sec. 11-503 of this subtitle, the county commissioners shall hold a public hearing.

  (2) The rules or regulations are not valid unless a public hearing is held as advertised.

(b) The  county commissioners shall publish notice of the time and place of the public hearing in a newspaper of general circulation in the county once a week for not less than 4 successive weeks.

#### Section 11-506

(a) A person who violates a rule or regulation adopted under Sec. 11-503 of this subtitle is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine of not less than $500 or imprisonment not exceeding 2 months or both.

(b) Each day on which a violation continues is a separate offense.

#### Section 11-507

In the event of a conflict, federal law, State law, or written program guidance issued by a unit of the federal or State government shall preempt a rule or regulation adopted or any other action taken under this subtitle.

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Md. Code Ann., Local Gov't (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)