Car towed in Boston?
Here’s how to get it back.
Before you go
Documents: Valid ID, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.
Payment: Cash. Call ahead to confirm.
TimeLimit: Vehicles considered abandoned after 72 hours. Retrieve ASAP.
Fees: Contact the impound lot for current fee schedule.
Why cars get towed in Boston
Street sweeping
Boston's street sweeping schedule is strictly enforced. Cars left during cleaning windows get ticketed and towed — the #1 tow reason in the city.
5+ overdue parking tickets
Accumulate five or more overdue tickets and your car gets booted or towed. The city actively enforces this.
Snow emergency parking ban
During declared snow emergencies, vehicles on designated streets must be moved. Tow trucks deploy immediately.
72-hour rule
Boston can tow vehicles parked on the same street for more than 72 hours if a complaint is filed or it poses a safety hazard.
Parked in a private lot?
Check for tow-away signs at the location where your car was parked. Signs must display the tow company name and phone number.
Know your rights
Massachusetts regulates towing under 220 CMR 272. Maximum rate for police-ordered towing is $132. Storage rate is $35/24-hour period.
Your towing rights in Boston
Massachusetts state law protects vehicle owners
🏢Private Property Rules
MGL Ch. 266 §120D permits 'Trespass Tows' where a vehicle is towed from a private lot by a tow company upon order of the property owner or person in lawful control. The Chief of Police sets policy for towing improperly parked vehicles from private property. The Department of Public Utilities licenses tow truck companies.
📝How to File a Complaint
Contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities or the Transportation Oversight Division.
Source: MGL Ch. 266 §120D, 220 CMR §272.00, GL c. 159B §6B
Avoid getting towed in Boston
Parking Apps
💰 Meter Rates
Metered spaces have time limits with strict enforcement. Read every sign carefully.
🆓 Free Parking
Check ParkBoston app for current free parking times. App shows rate changes and free periods.
💡 Pro Tip
Boston's historic narrow streets mean limited street parking. Book a garage via ParkMobile in advance for Back Bay, Seaport, or North End visits.
Pay for parking → avoid towing. It's that simple.
Parked somewhere else?