Car towed in Houston?
Here’s how to get it back.
Call directly
HPD Tow Line
Call with VIN or license plate to find which contracted lot has your vehicle.
How to get there
HPD Contracted Storage Facilities (PATSA)
Multiple contracted tow company lots across Houston (wrecker zone system)
Before you go
Documents: Valid ID, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Insurance required for all vehicle releases.
Payment: Varies by tow company. Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods.
TimeLimit: Storage fees accrue daily. Call the tow line immediately.
Fees: $232 standard non-consent tow (first 20 miles). Additional $4.64/mile beyond 20 miles. 'Tow and Go' program provides free tows for disabled vehicles on freeways (driver must be present).
Why cars get towed in Houston
24-hour parking limit
City Ordinance 26-93 makes it illegal to park on any public street for more than 24 hours. Violations are reported via 311 and lead to chalking, then towing.
Stalled on a freeway
Houston's Tow and Go program removes stalled vehicles from freeways quickly — free within one mile, but you must stay with the vehicle or it's impounded.
Abandoned vehicle reports
Neighbors can report vehicles via 311. A compliance officer chalks the tires, and if unmoved after 48 hours, towing follows.
Blocking driveways or fire lanes
Parking that blocks access to driveways, fire lanes, or hydrants triggers immediate towing by HPD.
Parked in a private lot?
Check for signage at the parking lot. Texas law requires specific signage for private property towing. Request tow hearing form at www.jp.hctx.net/tow.
Know your rights
Texas Occupations Code 2308 gives vehicle owners the right to a tow hearing within 14 days through Justice of the Peace courts. Property owners must have a tow agreement with a licensed company. Signs required at each entrance/exit (18x24 inches, 1-inch block letters).
Your towing rights in Houston
Texas state law protects vehicle owners
🪧Signage Requirements
Signs must be clearly visible, facing the public roadway, placed at each entrance. Must include 'Unauthorized vehicles will be towed at vehicle owner's expense' and the tow company phone number. Lettering must be at least 2 inches tall.
🚗Right to Retrieve
Owner can retrieve the vehicle if they arrive before it leaves the property. Drop fee (max 50% of tow fee) applies if vehicle is already hooked up.
🏢Private Property Rules
Property owner must post compliant signs before towing. Vehicle must be on the property for the tow to be valid. Tow companies must have a Vehicle Storage Facility (VSF) license from TDLR.
📝How to File a Complaint
File complaints with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) at (800) 803-9202 or online at tdlr.texas.gov.
Source: TX Occupations Code Ch. 2308, TX Transportation Code §545.305
Avoid getting towed in Houston
💰 Meter Rates
Rates vary by area — see pay station or signs for enforcement times
🆓 Free Parking
Resident Discount Program available with no transaction fees. Also pay via Google Pay or text PARK to 77223.
💡 Pro Tip
All pay stations are pay-by-plate — your license plate is your receipt. No need to display anything on your dashboard. Never pay anyone cash for on-street parking.
Pay for parking → avoid towing. It's that simple.
Parked somewhere else?