The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is implementing changes to its Provincial Tow Program that affect how Tow & Storage Service Operators (TSSOs) apply to provide OPP-requested tow services in 2023.
Among the changes, TSSOs are now required to complete their own Electronic Criminal Record Check which includes an agency letter acknowledging this requirement. These links are now available on the OPP Provincial Tow Program webpage at opp.ca
With the Ministry of Transportation (MTO)-led Tow Zone Pilot Program now in place, the OPP will adhere to the guidelines set out in this Greater Toronto Area (GTA) pilot.
For the OPP Provincial Tow Program (all areas outside the GTA Tow Zone Pilot Program scope), the existing practice of obtaining or dispatching a TSSO will remain the same as the current practice. Only TSSOs that have been approved to be on a Detachment TSSO Tow List will be dispatched for police requested tows.
TSSOs applying to be on an OPP Detachment Tow List (for the OPP Provincial Tow Program) must submit their application between September 1 (or earlier) and October 15 to be on the list for the following calendar year. TSSOs who were approved for the 2022 tow list are reminded that th ey must reapply to be accepted for the 2023 calendar year as outlined above.
TSSOs with questions can contact their local OPP detachment.
The OPP encourages all tow companies, operators and drivers to educate themselves about the rules and regulations around providing police-requested tow services under the OPP Provincial Tow Program.
HELPFUL LINKS
Consumer Protection Act (CPA) (2002):
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/02c30
Repair and Storage Liens Act (RSLA):
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90r25
Highway Traffic Act (HTA):
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90h08
The OPP is committed to enhancing public and officer safety, building public trust, and delivering bias-free OPP services to members of the public.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
