BAR proposes storage-fee rules for repair shops; insurers and body shops spar over averages, 3‑day window

The Bureau of Automotive Repair held a regulatory workshop to present draft rules for “storage fees charged by automotive repair dealers” and to collect feedback from collision repair shops, trade associations and insurers.

The proposal would require automotive repair dealers (ARDs) who charge storage fees after accidents or theft recoveries to report a maximum daily storage rate to BAR, post that rate at the place where customers are served, and permit consumer and third‑party access to stored vehicles. BAR staff also described plans for a search tool that would publish average and median daily storage rates by a defined “locale” based on reported maximums.

BAR said the rules are based on the authority granted in Assembly Bill 12 63 and existing statutes, and that the package is intended to bring Business and Professions, Civil and Vehicle Code provisions under a single regulatory structure. “The proposed regulations are drafted in accordance with the authority provided by Assembly Bill 12 63,” Matthew Gibson, program manager for BAR’s field operations and enforcement division, told the meeting.

Why it matters: the regulations would change how shops disclose and post storage charges, create data about local rates, clarify when shops may begin charging storage (including rules tied to tear‑down estimates), and expand BAR’s tools for resolving complaints. The proposal prompted strong, divergent comments from California Auto Body Association members and insurer representatives about consumer protection, competitive effects and enforcement.

Most important details

- Reporting and posting: ARDs that charge storage fees tied to accidents or theft recoveries must report a maximum daily storage rate once per registration cycle and…