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Okaloosa County updates towing rules and raises nonconsensual tow fees after operator testimony
Summary
The Okaloosa County Commission unanimously adopted an ordinance aligning county towing regulations with state law and approved a resolution to raise nonconsensual towing fees, citing cost increases since 2015 and a biennial review requirement; commissioners emphasized enforcement of rogue operators.
Okaloosa County commissioners unanimously approved an ordinance to align Article 6 of Chapter 12 of the county code with Florida statutes and a companion resolution updating the fee schedule for nonconsensual tows.
County staff presented the change as routine statutory alignment under Florida Statute 125.0103 and related towing provisions in Chapters 713 and 715, and said the resolution brings maximum allowable fees closer to current operating costs. The ordinance adds a requirement that the county review the fee schedule every two years to keep rates current.
Local tow operators urged the board to act. “Diesel fuel, which is what 95% of our trucks run, is over $5 a gallon,” said Josh Dooley (towing operator), describing rising fuel and insurance costs. Keisha Nichols of Jimmy Nichols Towing told commissioners that since the last fee update in 2015 her company has seen property insurance increase 139%, property tax 233% and vehicle insurance 117%, and urged passage. “We aren’t asking for a windfall. We are asking for the adjustment that reflects the reality of living in 2026,” said Kayla Lowe of Roadside Assistance of Towing.
Commissioners emphasized that updating rates should be paired with stronger enforcement of operators who are not following rules. Commissioner Mixon, who moved approval, said enforcement and coordination with the sheriff’s office are essential to prevent companies from undercutting lawful operators or operating without proper insurance. Chair Goodwin and others agreed; the board noted the sheriff had assigned a senior official to oversee enforcement activities during the review process.
The board approved the ordinance and the fee resolution on a unanimous voice vote. Commissioners said the biennial review should reduce the backlog of adjustments that built up since 2015 and reaffirmed the county’s interest in fair competition and public safety.
