Illegal Parking Towing Services: How to Take Action When a Car Is Parked Where It Shouldn’t Be

February 7, 2025

There’s nothing worse than pulling into your property or business only to find a random car blocking access. Maybe it’s sitting in front of your driveway, taking up a reserved spot, or worse—parked illegally in a fire lane. It’s frustrating, inconvenient, and sometimes even dangerous. So, what can you do? Illegal parking towing services exist for a reason, and if you’re dealing with an unauthorized vehicle on private or restricted property, you have the right to take action. Here’s how to handle the situation legally and efficiently.

When Can You Have a Car Towed?

Not every annoying parking situation qualifies for towing. However, if a vehicle is in clear violation of parking rules, you likely have the right to have it removed with the help of illegal parking towing services. Here are the most common reasons you can call a tow truck:

Blocking Your Driveway – If a car is parked across your driveway, preventing you from getting in or out, it’s a valid reason to call for a tow.
Private Property Violation – Businesses, apartment complexes, and homeowners with designated parking have the right to remove unauthorized vehicles.
Fire Lanes & Emergency Access – Cars parked in a fire lane or obstructing emergency access points are at risk of immediate towing.
Handicap Spot Abuse – If someone is parked in a handicap space without a valid permit, you can report it, and towing services may step in.
Abandoned or Non-Moving Vehicles – A car sitting in one spot for days without moving, especially if it looks abandoned, can be towed under most local laws.
Blocking Entrances or Exits – If a vehicle is preventing entry to a business, loading dock, or another critical area, it can be towed without warning.

Who Has the Authority to Call for a Tow?

Not just anyone can have a vehicle towed. If the car is on public property (like a street or public parking lot), only law enforcement or parking enforcement officers can issue a tow. However, if the car is on private property, the property owner, business owner, or property manager has the right to call a towing company directly.

If you’re a tenant in an apartment complex or a customer at a business, you usually can’t call for a tow yourself—you’ll need to notify management and have them take action.

How to Get an Illegally Parked Car Towed

If an unauthorized car is causing a problem, here’s the step-by-step process to have it legally towed:

Confirm It’s Illegally Parked – Check for property signs, permit requirements, and any local rules about towing unauthorized vehicles.
Document the Violation – Take pictures of the car, including its license plate, where it’s parked, and any relevant signage showing that parking is restricted.
Contact the Right Authority – If it’s blocking public access, call the police or parking enforcement. If it’s on private property, call a licensed towing service.
Provide Necessary Information – You may need to give the tow company details such as your property ownership or management status to authorize the tow.
Wait for the Tow Truck – Most towing companies operate 24/7 and can remove the vehicle quickly, depending on availability.
Inform Local Authorities if Required – Some areas require that police be notified before a vehicle is towed from private property.

What Happens After a Car is Towed?

Once the vehicle is removed, it is taken to an impound lot. The owner will need to pay fees to retrieve it, which usually include:

Towing fee – Often starts around $100 but can go much higher.
Storage fee – Charged per day, with rates between $20-$75 per day.
Additional fines – If the tow was due to unpaid parking violations or legal infractions, those must be paid before the car is released.

If the owner believes their car was unfairly towed, they can dispute it, but if the vehicle was in violation, they’re responsible for all fees.

How to Prevent Illegal Parking on Your Property

If unauthorized parking is a recurring issue, here are some ways to stop it before it happens:

Install Clear Signage – Signs that say “Private Property – Unauthorized Vehicles Will Be Towed” help deter illegal parking and provide legal backing for towing.
Use Permits for Designated Parking – If you own a business or residential complex, requiring permits can help identify unauthorized vehicles.
Set Up a Towing Agreement – Many businesses and property owners have standing agreements with local towing companies for quick removal of unauthorized vehicles.
Consider Physical Barriers – Gates, chains, or bollards can physically prevent cars from entering restricted areas.

Is It Legal to Tow a Car from Private Property?

Yes, but there are rules. Property owners must follow local regulations, which may require signage, a waiting period, or a police notification before towing. Illegally towing a vehicle without following the proper process can lead to legal trouble.

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Parking on Your Property

Illegal parking is a nuisance, but you don’t have to just accept it. Whether you’re dealing with a blocked driveway, unauthorized parking at your business, or repeat offenders taking advantage of your space, towing services can help enforce the rules. Knowing your rights and following the proper steps will ensure that you handle the situation legally and effectively. Don’t let someone else’s bad parking habits become your problem—take action and keep your property clear.