Car towed in Austin?
Here’s how to get it back.
Call directly
Austin Tow/Impound Info
Call for vehicle lookup and tow info.
Estimate your fees
Payment: Cash, Credit/debit cards
Estimates based on published rates. Actual fees may vary.
Before you go
Documents: by law to send notification VIA CERTIFIED LETTER to the address that is on the vehicles REGISTRATION.
Payment: Cash, Credit/debit cards. Call ahead to confirm.
TimeLimit: Storage fees accrue daily. Retrieve as soon as possible.
Fees: Storage: $22.85/day.
Why cars get towed in Austin
72-hour parking limit
Austin Code enforces a 72-hour parking limit on all public streets. Reported vehicles are tagged and towed if not moved.
Event-related tow zones
During SXSW, ACL, and other major events, temporary tow zones pop up downtown. Check signs carefully or risk impound.
Blocking bike lanes
Austin actively tows vehicles blocking protected bike lanes, especially on major corridors.
Expired registration
Vehicles with significantly expired registration parked on public streets can be reported and towed.
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
Texas Occupations Code 2308 governs private property towing. Signs required at each entrance/exit (18x24 inches). Tow hearing available within 14 days through Justice of the Peace courts.
Your towing rights in Austin
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 Austin
Parking Apps
💰 Meter Rates
Rates vary by location — check Park ATX app for current rates
🆓 Free Parking
Two free 15-minute parking sessions every 24 hours via Park ATX app. Use codes FREE15ATX1 and FREE15ATX2 (can't use both on same session).
💡 Pro Tip
New users may need a minimum wallet amount to start. Park ATX shows when rates change and when parking is free.
Pay for parking → avoid towing. It's that simple.
Parked somewhere else?