When A Car Is Towed
SDCL § 32-30-3.1 — the owner told within twenty-four hours, a lien on the car, and no lien on clothing, food or tools of a trade
A removal agency that tows an unattended vehicle from a public street, other than at the owner's or an officer's written request, reports it to the owner within twenty-four hours, or to the sheriff or chief of police if the owner cannot be reached. Not reporting is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
What the lien does not reach. Whoever takes custody holds a lien on the vehicle and its contents for the reasonable cost of towing and storage, but the lien on contents may not exceed $500, and none attaches to clothing, food, or the tools of a person's trade.
A tow from a private lot may follow other rules. A particular tow is a question for a licensed South Dakota attorney.
Sources for this section (2)
- SDCL § 32-30-3.1 — Removal of unattended vehicle by removal agency; Reporting requirements; Violation as misdemeanor
- SDCL § 32-30-18 — Lien for costs of removal and storage of vehicle; Limit; Exception
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed South Dakota attorney.