Ownership Rights: Removal of Unauthorized Vehicles from Private Lot - Responsible Party

My question involves personal property located in the State of: North Carolina, Cumberland county

Hello,

First things first, this may be posted in the wrong section. If it is, please help! :)

Background: My apartment complex contracted a company to tow my vehicle because the permit was not properly displayed on the rearview mirror. My vehicle was towed 18 miles despite several other towing companies with storage available within 15 miles.

Applicable Law(?):

North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 20. Motor Vehicles § 20-219.2. Removal of unauthorized vehicles from private lots.

Quote:

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[..]
(a1) If any vehicle is removed pursuant to this section and there is a place of storage within 15 miles, the vehicle shall not be transported for storage more than 15 miles from the place of removal.  For all other vehicles, the vehicle shall not be transported for storage more than 25 miles from the place of removal.
[...]

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Question 1: Does this mean "if [...] there is a place of storage for any towing company within 15 miles," or "if [...] there is a place of storage for the contracted towing company within 15 miles."
Question 2: Who is the responsible party (the owner of the lot (landlord) or the towing company) for violating the 15 mile rule?

Thank you,
Adam

Ownership Rights: Removal of Unauthorized Vehicles from Private Lot - Responsible Party