OH HB382

Establishes procedures for law enforcement to order vehicles into storage from private property after 4 hours without permission, with designated storage locations that are conveniently located, well-lit, and on public transit routes.

Creates a new "private tow-away zone" framework allowing property owners to establish designated towing areas by posting specific signage; requires written contracts between property owners and towing services complying with Public Utilities Commission rules.

Requires Public Utilities Commission to adopt rules establishing maximum towing fees ($90 standard/$150 heavy vehicles) and storage fees ($12/$20 per 24-hour period) for 5 years, with allowance for fee revision thereafter.

Establishes vehicle owner rights including: ability to pay half the towing fee to recover vehicle before removal is complete, retrieval of personal items without fee, and access to mediation and arbitration through the Public Utilities Commission for tow disputes.

Creates a Motor Vehicle Towing Advisory Council to advise the General Assembly on towing regulations, and establishes penalties ranging from minor misdemeanor to third-degree misdemeanor for violations by towing services and storage facilities.