Targeted police enforcement of towing regulations led to 75 charges and other actions in the first three months of the year, Ottawa police reported Thursday.
Officers inspected tow truck companies, drivers, and vehicle storage facilities for compliance under the Towing and Storage Safety Enforcement Act (TSSEA) and Highway Traffic Act (HTA).
As police have said since the revamped TSSEA came into effect in 2024, their main goal has been “to keep the public safe and protect consumers by making sure tow truck operators and drivers followed the rules.”
Among the actions from Jan. 1 to March 31, 2026, there were:
- 41 TSSEA charges;
- 34 Highway Traffic Act charges;
- Seven tow trucks removed from service for safety violations;
- One tow truck impounded under a seven-day Vehicle Impoundment Program;
- 33 tow yard inspections;
- 18 TSSEA charges issued for tow yard non-compliance;
- And five business certificates cancelled as a result of enforcement action.
“This initiative reflects a co-ordinated approach focused on both enforcement and education,” police explained in a news release.
“All companies charged were informed of violations prior to court proceedings. Where appropriate, an option to stay charges was extended to support compliance with legislative requirements.
“In cases where operators demonstrated that identified issues had been corrected, charges were stayed by the prosecution, with input from the investigating officer.
“This approach is intended to support a cooperative and accountable relationship with the towing industry.”
