Ontario introduced (March 2021) restricted towing zones on sections of provincial highways as part of a four year pilot program

• helps to clear incidents such as collisions or vehicle breakdowns on highways more safely and quickly

Restricted towing zones are defined sections of provincial highways where only authorized towing companies can remove vehicles that require a tow

• no other towing company can solicit towing of vehicles within a restricted towing zone
• authorized towing companies are under contract for each restricted towing zone 

If you need assistance in a restricted towing zone:

• call 911 if it is an emergency or if you are in a travelled lane and cannot safely move your vehicle to a safe location
• call 511 if you are in a safe location and you need a tow (select the option for the Tow Zone Pilot)
• in all other areas, call a towing company directly 

If you have a membership with an approved roadside assistance provider, you can call them directly instead of calling 511 if:

• you are in a safe location on the shoulder in a restricted towing zone
• you are driving a light vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 4,500 kg or less, such as a car, pick-up truck, SUV or minivan

Mon-Sun 24 hours

• Zone 1: Highway 401 from Highway 400 east to Morningside Avenue
• Zone 2: Highway 401 from Highway 400 west to Regional Road 25, Highway 427 from QEW to Highway 409, Highway 409 from Highway 427 to Highway 401
• Zone 3: Highway 400 from Highway 401 to Highway 9
• Zone 4: QEW from Highway 427 to Brant Street

Call 5-1-1