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Council adopts first readings to cap rotation-list towing fees; schedule to be added to annual budget
Summary
Council approved first-reading ordinances to amend the city's towing code and to include a maximum-fee schedule for police rotation calls in the city's budget; staff will propose the fee schedule for FY2026 adoption.
The Beaufort City Council on Feb. 11 approved first readings of two related ordinances that would set maximum allowable fees for tow trucks on the police department’s rotation list.
City staff explained the measures draw on discussions with local wrecker operators and review of towing fee schedules across the Lowcountry and neighboring states. The ordinances amend section 8-2003 of the city code and add a schedule of maximum fees as part of the annual budget process.
A staff presentation said the intent is not to cap every tow in every circumstance but to create maximums that apply to rotation-list calls handled for the police department. "These are specifically for tow trucks that are on our rotation call list for the police department," city staff said. The packet includes a table of recommended maximums derived after meetings with regional operators.
Council members were told the fee schedule itself would be made enforceable by incorporating it into the city’s annual budget and that staff plans to review these fees at least every two years. Representatives of the local towing industry attended and spoke in support of the proposals.
Both ordinances advanced on first reading by voice vote; staff said the schedule will be presented as part of the FY2026 budget for formal adoption.
