Tow Truck Premises Need Surveillance in 2026

Why Tow Truck Lots and Premises Are at Risk in Canada

Tow truck companies are essential service providers for roadside assistance, collision recovery and vehicle storage. In Ontario, tow yards and vehicle storage facilities face growing exposure to theft, vandalism and targeted property crime. These premises often store high-value vehicles, specialised equipment and fleet assets, frequently in unattended or industrial locations, making them attractive targets after hours.

As enforcement and regulation of the towing industry increases across Ontario, the physical security of tow yards has become a critical concern. Surveillance systems are no longer just a deterrent. They are a necessary operational safeguard for protecting customer vehicles, business assets and staff safety.

1. Ottawa and Hamilton: Break-Ins and Theft from Secured Storage Yards

Recent police investigations demonstrate how vulnerable secured storage yards can be when perimeter security is compromised.

In Ottawa, the Ottawa Police Service investigated a late-night break-in at a secured commercial storage yard along Carp Road in 2024, where suspects cut locks and accessed the fenced property under cover of darkness. Thieves removed a mobile industrial generator and trailer valued at more than $125,000, illustrating how quickly high-value assets can be stolen once a yard is breached. While the theft did not involve vehicles, the incident highlights the risks faced by tow yards that store equipment and customer property overnight without monitored surveillance.

In Hamilton, police investigations into organised vehicle theft have shown that secured commercial yards are frequently targeted due to predictable layouts and long periods of inactivity. Hamilton Police have laid charges in cases involving attempted thefts of large commercial vehicles from fenced lots, reinforcing the concern that tow truck storage yards face similar exposure when entry points and yard activity are not continuously monitored.

These cases underscore a common reality for Ontario tow operators: fencing and padlocks alone do not prevent determined criminals. Surveillance systems that monitor yard perimeters, access points and storage zones provide early detection and critical evidence when incidents occur.

2. Brampton: Violence and Retaliation Risks Near Tow Facilities

In Brampton, a violent incident involving tow truck operators on October 31, 2025, highlighted the broader risks surrounding tow-related properties. Peel Regional Police responded to a fight near Kennedy Road South and Orenda Road, where three people were assaulted with a metal pole and two victims were sprayed with bear spray.

Following an investigation, five men were charged on January 14, 2026, with offences including assault causing bodily harm and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

While the incident did not take place inside a tow yard, it reflects the heightened tensions that can surround towing operations and the potential for disputes to spill over into nearby lots, storage facilities or business premises. Tow yards that lack surveillance, controlled access and recorded evidence may be particularly vulnerable to retaliatory vandalism or after-hours property damage following such disputes.

3. Greater Toronto Area: Organised Crime and Targeted Property Attacks

In June 2025, a major Toronto Police wiretap investigation known as Project Yankee revealed a criminal network referred to by investigators as “The Union.” The investigation resulted in 20 arrests and more than 100 charges, uncovering a pattern of intimidation, violence and arson used to exert control within parts of the towing industry.

Police confirmed that the network was linked to firebombing attacks and deliberate property damage, reinforcing concerns that tow yards, fleet vehicles and storage facilities can become direct targets of organised criminal retaliation. While police emphasised that most tow companies operate lawfully, the investigation demonstrated how criminal disputes can extend beyond individuals and onto physical business premises.

For tow yard operators, this case reinforced the importance of visible surveillance coverage to deter attacks, document incidents and support police investigations when properties are targeted during overnight or unattended hours.

Why Surveillance Matters for Tow Truck Businesses

Prevent Theft and Property Damage

Tow yards contain concentrated high-value assets. Surveillance systems with night visibility, motion detection and remote access help detect suspicious activity early and discourage criminal behaviour.

Protect Customer and Fleet Vehicles

When vehicles entrusted to your care are stolen or damaged, the financial and reputational consequences can be severe. Surveillance demonstrates due diligence and reduces liability exposure.

Support Law Enforcement and Insurance Claims

Clear video evidence strengthens police investigations and helps resolve insurance claims by documenting timelines, entry points and offender actions.

Don’t get left unguarded

If your tow truck business operates storage yards, impound lots or fleet facilities, do not wait until theft or vandalism disrupts your operations. Investing in professional surveillance solutions is one of the most effective ways to protect your business in 2026 and beyond.