We all know that sinking feeling when you go out and your car is missing. You might’ve parked in a dodgy spot, forgotten to renew your registration, or left your vehicle for too long in a private lot, but being towed in California is more prevalent than you might realize. But the thing is: California towing regulations are tough, and understanding your rights means evading an expensive error or even disputing an unjust tow.
At ST Towing LLC, we’re all about transparency, compliance, and treating every car owner with fairness and respect. That’s why we’re explaining California’s towing laws in plain terms so you know what’s legal, what’s not, and how to protect yourself. And if you’re searching for reliable, regulation-compliant towing Sacramento CA services, we’ve got your back.
Let’s get into what every California motorist needs to know about towing laws.
Why You Should Learn About California Towing Laws
Towing isn’t simply an inconvenience but an often expensive, frustrating, and confusing. Knowing the rules can save you from surprise tows, unnecessary fees, or even legal disputes. In California, the regulations are specific and complex. If you’re parked on private land, have expired registration, or asking if a vehicle may legally be towed with an occupant inside (spoiler alert: it may not), this guide will guide you through it.
Towing From Private Property
One of the most typical situations in California is private property towing. Consider a shopping center parking lot, apartment building lots, or business parking lots.
Here’s how it works: A property owner or manager may have your car towed without warning under specific circumstances, including:
- Parking in a reserved space for residents or customers only
- Blocking fire lanes or driveways
- Parking in handicap parking spaces without a permit
But there are strict requirements:
- Clear and visible signs are to be posted at all entry points indicating that unauthorized vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.
- The tow company is to inform the local law enforcement agency within 1 hour of having taken away the vehicle.
- Towing must be performed by a licensed and insured company.
Pro tip: In case there is no sign and there is no emergency (such as a blocked fire hydrant), towing could be unlawful.
Towing From Public Property
In regard to public lots, highways, and streets, authorities such as parking enforcement or police may have your car towed for the following reasons:
- Over 6 months expired registration tags
- Abandoned cars
- Obstructing traffic or fire lanes
- Past due parking tickets or citations
Police must document the reason for the tow and file a report. If your car is impounded, you’ll need to visit the designated impound lot, show proof of ownership, and pay towing and storage fees to retrieve it.
Is It Illegal to Tow a Car with Someone in It?
Yes, absolutely illegal.
In California, both state and federal law prohibit towing a vehicle with an occupant or pet. This constitutes reckless endangerment and can lead to severe penalties for the tow company.
If this occurs to you (or someone you know), it’s essential to:
- Notify law enforcement right away
- Document evidence if it is safe to do so
- Seek medical care if necessary
Legal towing businesses such as ST Towing LLC always check if a vehicle is unoccupied first.
What If You Have Unpaid Registration?
Most people are unaware that cars whose registration has expired for more than six months can be towed, even from your driveway. The DMV has the authority to issue a citation and tow the vehicle under California Vehicle Code 22651(o).
How to avoid this:
- Keep your registration up to date
- If you’re awaiting smog checks or parts, request a temporary operating permit from the DMV
What Are Your Rights as a Vehicle Owner?
The good news: you do have rights if your car is towed in California.
- Immediate release: If you get there and your car is being hooked up, you can require it be released. The towing company has to let it go at no cost (unless the car is completely secured, in which case a reasonable fee, ordinarily half of the normal tow fee may be charged).
- Access to information: You have the right to know who initialed the tow, the towing company’s name and address, and where your vehicle is being transported.
- 24-hour access: Impound lots should be accessible to release a vehicle 24/7, or they cannot charge after-hours fees.
- Storage fees: Should be fair and legibly posted.
- Right to a hearing: If you feel that your car was towed without cause, you have the right to a post-storage hearing from the local police or city within 10–14 days.
Towing Company Responsibilities
Licensed towing companies are required to comply with the following:
- Offer itemized bills upon demand
- Accept all major modes of payment (not only cash)
- Adhere to adequate signage and lighting at impound lots
- Post their fees prominently
- Return the vehicle right away with full payment
Not upholding these requirements can lead to fines, lawsuits, and even losing their license.
That is why ST Towing LLC strives to be transparent, professional, and ethical in every tow we do.
Fines for Illegal Towing
Businesses or property owners that illegally tow cars can be subject to:
- Civil fines of up to $2,500 per infraction
- Triple the towing charge and storage fee liability
- Suspension of towing license
- Criminal charges if the tow posed a threat to someone’s life
Vehicle owners can also sue for damages, lost time, or emotional distress due to illegal or negligent tows.
How to Avoid Getting Towed in California
Let’s be real! prevention is always less expensive than recovery. Here’s how to avoid getting on the hook:
- Watch for signage: Always be on the lookout for posted towing signs, particularly in apartment buildings or shopping centers.
- Park within the lines: Do not block driveways, alleys, or red zones.
- Register your vehicle on time: Use calendar reminders or the DMV’s online renewal system.
- Don’t leave your car too long: Public streets often have 72-hour limits, even if you’re legally parked.
- Resolve parking tickets quickly: Unpaid citations can lead to booting or towing.
- Know your rights: If something feels off about your tow, ask for documentation and contact law enforcement if needed.
Final Thoughts
California towing regulations have been crafted to harmonize the interests of property owners, towing businesses, and car owners. Although enforcement becomes essential in most situations, unlawful or unethical towing still occurs and they can cost you dearly if you do not know your rights.
At ST Towing LLC, we pride ourselves on being the type of towing operation that plays by the book and respects people. When you require towing Sacramento CA residents have come to trust for affordable rates, expedient response, and legal operations, our crew is the one for you.
Do you require towing or roadside assistance you can count on? Call ST Towing LLC today and let’s get you on the road to good.