Can North Carolina Police Tow Your Car from Private Property? Here’s What the Law Says

Can North Carolina Police Tow Your Car from Private Property? Here’s What the Law SaysPhoto byTown Talks

Living in busy cities like Raleigh or Charlotte, North Carolina, can present parking challenges, and sometimes cars get towed from private property.

Can police tow your car from private property in North Carolina? It depends on the circumstances.

Towing Laws in North Carolina

Public vs. Private Property:

• Public Property: Includes streets, sidewalks, and government-owned lots where police can enforce parking rules and authorize towing.
• Private Property: Owned by individuals or businesses, where the property owner has the authority to set towing rules, even if the vehicle isn’t causing a safety issue.

Signage Requirements:

• Property owners must display clear signage at entry points and throughout the parking area to legally tow vehicles.
• Signs must state:
• • Authorization for towing.
  • Consequences of parking violations.
  • Contact information of the towing company.

Without proper signage, unauthorized tows can be challenged.

Permission:

• Explicit permission from the property owner protects you from being towed. Having written proof is recommended to avoid misunderstandings.

What to Do If Your Car Is Towed

Towing Process:

1. Notice of Tow: The towing company usually leaves a notice with their contact information and how to reclaim your vehicle.
2. Inventory: The company makes a detailed inventory of your vehicle’s contents before towing.
3. Storage: Your car is taken to an impound lot.

Reclaiming Your Vehicle:

• Contact the towing company to pay towing and storage fees. You’ll need:
• • Proof of ownership.
  • Driver’s license.
  • Payment (cash, debit, or credit).

Challenging an Unlawful Tow

1. Gather Evidence: Document the situation with photos of where your car was parked and any signage.
2. Contact the Property Owner: Discuss the situation to resolve any misunderstandings.
3. Contact the Towing Company: Inquire about their towing authorization.
4. File a Complaint: With the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) if the tow was unlawful. To submit a complaint online, fill out this form.

Tips for Avoiding Tows

• Pay attention to parking signs.
• Get permission before parking on private property.
• Keep vehicle registration and insurance up-to-date.

By understanding these rules and taking precautions, you can avoid the inconvenience and expense of having your car towed from private property in North Carolina.