Car towed in San Diego?
Here’s how to get it back.
Call directly
SDPD Tow Administration
Handles towing claims. Call for post-storage hearing requests.
How to get there
City of San Diego Contracted Tow Lots (AutoReturn)
Multiple contracted tow company lots across San Diego
Before you go
Documents: Registered owner ID and driver's license required to recover vehicle.
Payment: Contact tow company for accepted payment methods.
TimeLimit: Allow minimum 3 hours for the impound process to complete before information is available.
Fees: Tow and storage fees apply. Post-storage hearing available per CVC 22852 — if tow deemed invalid, city pays all fees.
Why cars get towed in San Diego
72-hour parking limit
You cannot park on the same city street for more than 72 hours. Violations are commonly reported by neighbors and enforced by SDPD.
Registration expired 6+ months
Vehicles on city property with registration expired over six months are towed — a top reason for impound in San Diego.
Street sweeping violations
Posted sweeping schedules are enforced. Missing the window means a ticket and potential tow, especially in beach communities.
5+ unpaid tickets
Accumulating five or more unpaid parking tickets triggers boot and tow. Call AutoReturn at 619-527-4392 to check.
Parked in a private lot?
Private property tows are NOT in the city system. If towed from private property, look for posted signs at the site. SDPD and City Attorney are actively pursuing illegal towing operations.
Know your rights
CVC 22852: Every person towed by the city gets a Post-Storage Hearing. Must request within 10 days of mailed notice by calling SDPD Tow Admin at 858-495-7830. Hearing conducted over phone.
Your towing rights in San Diego
California state law protects vehicle owners
🪧Signage Requirements
Signs must be at least 17x22 inches with 1-inch lettering. Must be posted at every entrance to the property. Signs must state 'Tow-Away Zone' and include the towing company phone number.
🚗Right to Retrieve
Owner can retrieve the vehicle before it leaves the property. Maximum drop fee (vehicle on the hook but not yet removed) cannot exceed 50% of the tow charge.
🏢Private Property Rules
Property owner must have a written agreement with the tow company. Vehicles cannot be towed within 1 hour of the owner posting new no-parking signs. Tow company must accept credit/debit cards.
📝How to File a Complaint
File complaints with the local police department or the California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) at (800) 952-5210.
Source: CA Vehicle Code §22658
Avoid getting towed in San Diego
Parking Apps
💰 Meter Rates
Rates vary by zone. $0.35 transaction fee on all credit card payments at meters (starting Nov 2025).
🆓 Free Parking
Most meters enforced Mon–Sat, 8 AM–6 PM. Downtown Hospitality Zone and Hillcrest Commercial Zone until 8 PM.
💡 Pro Tip
Only the Park Smarter app works at meters with the blue sticker. Low income payment plans available for parking citations.
Pay for parking → avoid towing. It's that simple.
Parked somewhere else?