California Towing and Recovery Regs

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📍 California Towing Regulations – Know the Law Before You Tow

California has strict towing laws in place to protect both property owners and vehicle owners. Whether you're a tow truck operator, property manager, or vehicle owner, understanding these rules helps prevent legal issues and ensures fair practices.

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🔧 Key California Towing Rules

1. Authorization Required for Private Property Tows

A private property tow must be authorized by the property owner or their agent.

A written authorization must be completed before towing, unless the vehicle is blocking a driveway, fire lane, or is clearly abandoned (after 96 hours with notice).

Towing from apartment or business parking lots must have proper signage posted at all entrances.

2. Signage Requirements

Signs must be at least 17"x22" with 1-inch letters.

Must list:

The name and phone number of the towing company.

The location of where the vehicle will be stored.

That towing is enforced at all times.

3. Immediate Notification

Towing companies must notify the local law enforcement agency (usually within 1 hour) after towing a vehicle from private property.

4. Storage & Release Rules

Towed vehicles must be stored in a facility within 10 miles of the tow site.

Vehicle owners must be allowed to retrieve personal property from the vehicle during normal business hours, even if they can't pay to retrieve the car.

If the tow was illegal or without proper cause, the owner may be entitled to have the car released at no charge.

5. Maximum Towing Fees

Towing and storage rates must be reasonable and consistent with local law.

Some cities or counties set maximum fees.

Extra charges must be clearly explained and itemized on the invoice.

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🚫 Illegal Tows – What’s Considered a Violation?

Towing without proper signage or written authorization.

Overcharging or adding bogus fees.

Failing to notify law enforcement.

Towing from property not in violation (e.g., permitted guests or tenants).

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📞 What to Do If You’ve Been Towed

Call the local police department to locate your vehicle.

Request a copy of the authorization form if towed from private property.

If you believe the tow was illegal, file a complaint with:

California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR)

California Attorney General’s Office

Local city or county consumer protection agencies

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✅ For Tow Companies – Stay Compliant

Always have written authorizations.

Post required signage properly.

Keep clear records of each tow.

Notify law enforcement immediately after each private property tow.

Be transparent and fair with fees.

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🛻 California Vehicle Code Sections to Know:

CVC 22658 – Private property towing laws

CVC 22651 – Public property and law enforcement towing authority

CVC 22953 – Personal property access

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Note: Local city and county laws may have additional requirements. Always check local ordinance