Towing Laws in Calgary: Your Essential Guide to Vehicle Impoundment and Driver Rights
Have you experienced a situation where you head back to the spot where you left your car, and it’s gone?You are left confused and frustrated while creating different scenarios. Was it stolen? Did I misread a sign? What happens now? If yes, then you’re not alone. An unexpected tow is stressful, and what often makes it worse is not knowing what to do next. Most drivers aren’t familiar with towing laws in Calgary, and this lack of clarity only adds to the anxiety.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through it all, clearing up answers to questions such as why vehicles are towed, how impoundment works, and what your rights are as a vehicle owner.
As an experienced towing company in Calgary, we’ve helped countless people through these cases. Our goal isn’t just to move vehicles, it’s to empower drivers with the knowledge to handle tough moments with confidence.
Understanding Why Your Vehicle Might Be Towed in Calgary
Vehicle impoundment can happen for several reasons, but most fall into one of these three categories. Let’s look at them clearly so you can understand what might happen in your situation, or how to avoid it in the future.
A. City Bylaw Violations
Under Calgary parking bylaws, your car can be towed for:
- Illegal parking: Blocking fire lanes, parking in handicapped zones without a permit, or ignoring no-parking signs, especially during snow removal or street sweeping events.
- Abandonment: If a vehicle sits on a public street for too long without moving, it may be considered abandoned and removed.
- Traffic or safety hazards: Vehicles that block intersections, sidewalks, or create danger to public safety can be quickly towed.
- Vehicles with expired or missing registration/insurance: It’s illegal in Alberta to leave an unregistered or uninsured vehicle parked on public roads. If found during enforcement or tagged as abandoned, these vehicles can be ticketed and towed without warning.
B. Private Property Towing
This is where a lot of confusion happens. Private property tows aren’t handled by the City, but by property owners or managers (like condos, malls, or commercial lots) who call a private towing company.
Reasons you could be towed include:
- Parking without a permit or permission
- Taking someone else’s reserved space
- Ignoring posted signage (even if you were “just five minutes”)
Important: Private property tows must follow certain rules, but the process differs from public towing. Always check signage for towing information.
C. Post-Accident or Police-Initiated Towing
You may also have your vehicle towed if:
- It’s unsafe to drive following a collision
- It’s involved in a police investigation
- It’s blocking traffic after an incident
FAQ: Why was I towed from a spot I’ve parked in before with no problem?
A: Rules can change temporarily, such as during street cleaning or construction, and new signage can be posted with short notice. Always double-check the signs, even in familiar areas.
What Happens When Your Vehicle Gets Towed: The Impoundment Process
So, your car’s been towed. What now?
Here are the steps you can expect to take in order to track your vehicle down and get it back.
A. Locating Your Vehicle
Your first step is to figure out where your vehicle went.
- If it was a city-initiated tow, you can check the Calgary Parking Authority Impound Lot website or call 403-537-7111.
- If you were parked on private property, look around the area for signs with the contact information of the towing company; they are required to be posted by law.
- Still unsure? Call the Calgary Police Service non-emergency line at 403-266-1234. They can confirm whether your vehicle was towed or reported stolen.
B. What Documents You’ll Need to Get Your Vehicle Back
To retrieve your vehicle from an impound lot in Calgary, bring:
- Valid government-issued ID
- Current vehicle registration matching your ID (this is the most important)
- Proof of insurance
If you recently bought the car and it is not yet registered in your name, a bill of sale might be accepted, but you should call ahead to confirm. Most impound lots require current registration as proof of legal ownership.
C. Fees and Charges: What You Might Owe
Towing and storage costs can vary depending on the situation, vehicle size, and the impound location. Here’s a general idea:
- Towing Fee: Usually starts around $150–$200, depending on the incident.
- Storage Fee: For City-initiated tows, the Calgary Municipal Impound Lot charges $43.00/day for most vehicles
- Heavier vehicles may be charged $55–$65/day
- Administrative Fees: May be added depending on the situation.
Remember: Reputable companies and municipal lots are required to provide itemized billing. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if something isn’t clear.
D. Payment Methods Accepted
Most impound lots accept:
- Debit or credit cards
- Cash
- Some may allow e-transfer or certified cheque (always call ahead to confirm)
FAQ: Can I get my things out of the car before I pay the fees?
A: In general, yes. You are allowed to take out your personal property, such as medications, wallets, work tools, etc, even if you do not pay the fees. Just make sure to bring identification and sign a form.
Your Rights Under Calgary Towing Law
Even if your car was towed, you still have rights. Here’s what the towing laws in Calgary say about your protections as a vehicle owner.
A. Right to Information
You have the right to know:
- The reason why your car was towed
- Where it’s being held
- How much will it cost to obtain your vehicle
The company or agency must give you clear, accurate details.
B. Right to Appeal an Unjust Tow
If you believe your vehicle was towed unfairly, you can:
- Contact the Calgary Parking Authority if it was a public tow
- Speak with the property manager or towing company for private property tows
- Dispute the charge through small claims court if necessary
Tip: Take photos of the scene (especially if signage was missing or it was unclear), keep any tickets or receipts, and document your interactions.
C. Right to Retrieve Personal Belongings
Under local regulations, you can recover essential personal items from your vehicle before paying the full release fee, unless the vehicle is under police hold or legal restriction.
D. Right to Prompt Vehicle Release
Once you have paid all fees and provided the required documentation, the impound lot must release your vehicle without undue delay.
FAQ: Can I dispute a private tow if there were no signs?
A: Yes. If there were no clear or visible signs permitting towing, it may be possible for you to dispute it. Take photos, gather witness information, and file a formal complaint.
When to Call a Professional Towing Service After Impound
Many people assume that once they’ve paid the fees and recovered their car, they’re good to go. But in reality, many vehicles that end up in impound aren’t always road-ready when it’s time to take them home. Whether due to collision damage, mechanical issues, or simply sitting too long without maintenance, driving them right off the lot may not be safe, or even possible.
That’s where professional towing services come in. Whether you need help getting your car safely to a repair shop, back home, or to a secure location, having a reliable towing partner can save you time, money, and additional stress.
Here are some situations where you might need to tow your vehicle after completing all the necessary procedures:
A. When It Makes Sense to Get a Tow After Release
You may want to consider arranging a tow if:
- Your car was in an accident, and you are not sure if it is safe to drive
- The vehicle cannot be started, or you suspect mechanical issues after sitting in the lot
- You do not have valid registration or insurance, and you cannot legally drive it
- You just feel uncomfortable driving it right away
Having your vehicle transported professionally ensures peace of mind and keeps you and others on the road safe.
B. Planning Ahead for a Safe Vehicle Transfer
If you think you may have an undriveable vehicle before getting it from impound, it is often a good idea to plan for the tow in advance. This way, you will not have the issue of dealing with an unpleasant surprise or being stuck in the lot trying to figure out what to do.
Even if everything looks okay, a quick visual check or call to your mechanic can help you decide if it’s better to have the vehicle towed than risk driving it right away.
Conclusion
Getting your vehicle towed is never fun, but if you are aware of what to do next, it makes things manageable.
By understanding towing laws in Calgary, you’re taking control. You’ll be able to respond faster, protect your rights, and minimize stress in an already frustrating moment.
At MSA 24/7 Towing Calgary, we’re not just about hauling vehicles- we’re about helping Calgarians stay safe, informed, and mobile. Whether it’s a roadside emergency or a post-impound transport, our team is here when you need us
Need towing? Reach out to us at 587-435-4869 for any road emergencies, and we assure you, we’ll be there in no time. Learn more about our services by visiting our site.
FAQs: Towing in Calgary
Q1. How long can the car stay in impound in Calgary?
A: Typically, 30–60 days. After that, it may be sold or scrapped. Fees increase daily, so act quickly.
Q2. Can my car be towed for unpaid tickets?
A: Yes. Accumulated unpaid fines, especially for parking or bylaw violations, can lead to a tow or booting.
Q3. Who oversees towing laws in Calgary?
A: Public tows are governed by the City of Calgary, while private tows must comply with Alberta’s Consumer Protection laws.
Q4. What if I arrive while my vehicle is being towed?
A: If the tow hasn’t been completed yet, you may be able to stop it, though you might still owe a release fee. Always remain calm and ask for a receipt.
Q5. Can towing companies charge whatever they want?
A: No. They must follow regulated fee structures and provide itemized invoices. If you feel you were overcharged, file a complaint with Alberta Consumer Services.
