Car towed in Detroit?
Here’s how to get it back.
Before you go
Documents: Valid ID, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.
Payment: Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods.
TimeLimit: Storage fees accrue daily. Retrieve as soon as possible.
Fees: Contact the impound lot for current fee schedule.
Why cars get towed in Detroit
Snow emergency routes
Detroit has about 75 snow emergency routes marked with red and white signs. During snow events, vehicles are ticketed and towed immediately.
Residential street snow parking
Even on residential streets, the city encourages moving cars for plows. Vehicles blocking snow removal operations get towed.
Abandoned vehicle enforcement
Vehicles appearing abandoned on Detroit streets are tagged and towed. The city actively works to reduce neighborhood blight.
Expired registration
Vehicles with expired plates parked on public streets can be reported and towed after being marked.
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
Michigan Vehicle Code regulates towing. Search for impounded vehicles at the Secretary of State Michigan Abandoned Vehicle Search.
Your towing rights in Detroit
Michigan state law protects vehicle owners
🪧Signage Requirements
Private property owners must have a clearly visible notice posted before towing a vehicle without the owner's consent.
🚗Right to Retrieve
Owners of vehicles involved in accidents must claim within 20 days. After that, the vehicle is labeled as an abandoned vehicle and may be sold.
🏢Private Property Rules
After a vehicle is towed, towing companies must share the vehicle's new location with local police. Within 24 hours, police determine if the vehicle was reported stolen and enter it into the law enforcement information network. The Secretary of State must send notice to the last known registered owner.
📝How to File a Complaint
File complaints with the Michigan Attorney General's Consumer Protection division at michigan.gov/consumerprotection. Lansing: (517) 335-7622. Detroit: (313) 456-0240.
Source: MCL §257.252a
Parked somewhere else?