Towed From A Private Lot
Veh. Code 22658 — the sign, the written authorization, and release before the car leaves the lot
In California, the owner or person in lawful possession of private property may have a vehicle removed in the circumstances the section lists. One is a sign in plain view at all entrances, not less than 17 inches by 22 inches with lettering not less than one inch high, prohibiting public parking, warning of removal at the owner's expense, and giving the telephone number of the local traffic law enforcement agency and the name and number of each towing company under a written agreement.
Before it leaves the lot, the car is released. When the owner or the owner's agent asks, the towing company or its driver immediately and unconditionally releases a vehicle that is not yet removed from the property and in transit. If the owner returns after the vehicle is hooked up but before it leaves, the charge is no more than one-half of the regular towing charge.
A free public lot waits an hour. On private property held open to the public for parking at no fee, the owner may not tow a vehicle within one hour of its being parked, except one parked within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, in a fire lane, blocking an entrance or exit, or in a space designated for disabled persons. A violation makes the person liable for two times the towing and storage charges.
Paperwork at the counter. When the owner claims the vehicle, the towing company provides a photocopy of the written authorization before payment, and a separate notice giving the telephone number of the local law enforcement or prosecuting agency for anyone who believes the tow was wrongful. The storage facility accepts cash or a valid bank credit card.
- A vehicle released within 24 hours of entering storage is charged for only one day.
- Storage is within a 10-mile radius of the property, unless law enforcement has given prior general written approval.
- A towing company that tows without the required written authorization is civilly liable for four times the towing and storage charges.
| The assumption | What the law actually does |
|---|---|
| The assumptionOnce the car is hooked up, it is gone | What the law actually doesUntil it is off the property and in transit, it is released on request |
| The assumptionA shopper's car can be towed the minute it is parked | What the law actually doesNot within one hour at a free lot, outside the listed hazards |
Local ordinances, fee schedules and police ordered impounds are not all on this page. Whether a particular tow was lawful is a question for a licensed California attorney.
Sources for this section (2)
- Veh. Code 22658 — Removal of vehicles from private property
- Veh. Code 22953 — Parking lots open to the public at no fee: no tow within one hour
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed California attorney.