Wrecker classifications.
Memphis Code of Ordinances § 6-88-4
in effectSec. 6-88-4. - Wrecker classifications.
A. Class A. For towing passenger cars, pick-up trucks, small trailers, etc. This classification also includes "wheel lift" type vehicle transporters.
1. The towing vehicle chassis shall have a minimum manufacturer's capacity of 14,000 lbs. or greater GVWR;
2. The individual boom capacity shall be not less than four tons;
3. The individual power winch pulling capacity shall be not less than four tons;
4. There shall be a minimum of 100 feet of ⅜ inch, or larger cable or 7/16 inch, or larger synthetic rope on each drum;
5. The wheel lift shall be capable of picking up a passenger car or pick-up truck; and possessing equipment capable of lifting the vehicle by the wheels only, with nothing touching the vehicle body.
a. Wheel lift towing vehicles shall meet all Class "A" requirements, excluding the belt-type cradle tow plate or tow sling.
b. Safety restraint straps (nylon straps with ratchets or the equivalent) shall be provided to secure the towed vehicle's tires into the wheel lift forks.
6. The towing vehicle shall have a belt-type cradle tow plate or tow sling to pick up vehicles, and cradle or tow plate to be equipped with safety chain except for wheel lift towing vehicles as referenced above; and
7. Dollies are suggested, but not required.
B. Class B. For towing medium size trucks, trailers, etc.
1. The towing vehicle chassis shall have a minimum manufacturer's capacity of 26,000 lbs. or greater GVWR;
2. The towing vehicle shall have the following boom specifications:
a. Double boom: So constructed as to permit splitting, each boom to operate independently or jointly, individual boom capacity of no less than eight tons and individual power winch pulling capacity of not less than eight tons, or
b. Single boom: with no less than a 16 ton capacity and a power winch pulling capacity of no less than 16 tons.
3. The towing vehicle shall have a minimum of 200 feet of 7/16 inch, or larger, cable on each drum; and
4. The towing vehicle shall have a cradle tow plate or tow sling to pick up vehicle, cradle or tow plate to be equipped with safety chain.
C. Class C. For towing large trucks, road tractors, and trailers.
1. The towing vehicle chassis shall have a minimum manufacturer's capacity of 35,000 lbs. or greater GVWR;
2. The towing vehicle shall have the following boom specifications:
a. Double boom as to permit splitting; each boom to operate independently or jointly; individual boom capacity of no less than 12½ tons, or
b. Single boom with no less than a 25 ton capacity and a power winch pulling capacity of no less than 25 tons;
3. The towing vehicle shall have a minimum of 200 feet, or more, of 9/16 inch, or larger, cable on each drum;
4. The towing vehicle shall have airbrakes constructed so as to lock wheels automatically upon failure;
5. Only tandem axle trucks with two live drive axles will be accepted as class C; and
6. An under-reach capable of towing an 80,000 lbs. Tractor trailer combination shall be required on all class C towing vehicles that are added to the towing list after July 1, 2008.
(Ord. No. 5133, § 1(part), 4-18-2006; Ord. No. 5876, § 2, 11-7-2023)
Source: City of Memphis, Code of Ordinances and Charter and Related Laws (Municode Library, library.municode.com)URL: https://library.municode.com/tn/memphis/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT6BULIRE_CH6-88WRTOOP_ART1INGE_S6-88-4WRCLFetched: 10/28/2026