How to Deal with Unauthorized Vehicles on Your Private Property in San Diego

If you own or manage private property in San Diego, you may have encountered unauthorized vehicles parked on your lot. These vehicles can cause inconvenience, disrupt parking for tenants or customers, and even pose safety risks. Knowing your rights and the proper steps to take can help you deal with this issue legally and efficiently.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about property towing in San Diego, CA, from understanding your rights as a property owner to working with professional towing services. Whether you’re dealing with abandoned cars, illegally parked vehicles, or repeat offenders, this article will give you the tools to handle the situation with confidence.

Understanding Your Rights as a Property Owner

Can You Legally Tow a Car Off Your Property?

Yes, as a property owner, you have the legal right to remove unauthorized vehicles from your premises. However, you must follow specific rules outlined in California Vehicle Code (CVC) 22658 to ensure the towing is legal.

Key Legal Considerations:

You must post clear “Tow Away” signs at every entrance of your property if parking restrictions apply.
If a car is parked on private property without consent, you may have it towed immediately.
If a vehicle is blocking a driveway, fire lane, or handicap space, it can be removed without delay.
Law enforcement does not need to be notified before towing, but the tow company must inform them once the vehicle is removed.
Understanding these regulations will help you avoid legal disputes and ensure compliance with state laws.

Common Reasons for Towing Unauthorized Vehicles

There are several common reasons property owners need to tow vehicles from their property:
Blocked driveways — Cars that prevent entry or exit from your property.
Illegally parked vehicles — Vehicles in restricted areas, red zones, or fire lanes.
Abandoned vehicles — Cars left unattended for long periods without valid registration.
Unauthorized tenants or visitors — People who park in reserved spaces or visitor parking without permission.
Repeat parking violations — Individuals who continuously ignore property rules.
Recognizing these common scenarios will help you determine when towing is necessary.

Steps to Take Before Calling a Tow Truck

Before you contact a tow truck in San Diego, follow these steps to ensure you are acting within the law:

1. Verify the Violation

Check your posted parking rules and ensure the vehicle is in violation.
Look for any visible permits that may allow the vehicle to park there.

2. Document the Violation

Take clear photos of the car, including its position, license plate, and posted signs.
Record the time and date of the incident.

3. Check Local Towing Laws

If the car has been there for less than an hour, in some cases, a waiting period may apply.
Make sure you are following CVC 22658 guidelines.

4. Notify Law Enforcement (If Required)

If the car is abandoned or stolen, report it to the police.
For blocked driveways or fire lanes, authorities may assist in removal.
Taking these steps protects you from liability and ensures a smooth towing process.

How to Call for a Property Towing Service in San Diego

Once you’ve confirmed that a vehicle should be towed, it’s time to call a towing company in San Diego.

What Information Should You Provide?

Your property address and contact details
The vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number
Why the vehicle is being towed (e.g., blocking a driveway, unauthorized parking)

Common Questions About Towing:

Do tow trucks need your keys? No, they can tow without the vehicle’s keys.
How long do tow trucks take? Typically, 30–60 minutes, depending on traffic and availability.
Working with a trusted towing company ensures the process is handled quickly and legally.

Avoiding Legal Issues with Private Property Towing

Towing unauthorized vehicles is legal, but you must follow the correct procedures to avoid complaints or lawsuits.

How to Stay Compliant:

Post proper signage — Ensure your parking rules are displayed.
Keep records — Always document violations and keep records of towed vehicles.
Use a licensed towing company — Work only with insured and compliant tow operators.
Respond to complaints professionally — If a tenant or visitor disputes a tow, provide proof of the violation.
By following these steps, you can legally and effectively manage parking on your property.

Additional Roadside Assistance for Property Owners and Tenants

Aside from towing services, property owners may also encounter tenants or visitors needing roadside assistance.

Common Roadside Services:

Car lockout services — Helping tenants who lock their keys in their car.
Emergency fuel delivery — Bringing gas to stranded drivers.
Jumpstart services — Assisting with dead car batteries.
Flat tire changes — Helping tenants or customers get back on the road.
Providing this information to tenants can prevent unnecessary parking violations and improve tenant satisfaction.

How Freeway Towing El Cajon Can Help You

At Freeway Towing El Cajon, we specialize in private property towing in San Diego, CA. Our team offers fast, reliable, and legal towing services for property owners, HOAs, and businesses.

Why Choose Us?

24/7 towing and roadside assistance Fast response times Free “Tow Away” signage Fully insured and licensed professionals Legal compliance with California towing laws
If you need unauthorized vehicles removed from your property, we’re here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can the police tow cars on private property in California?
No, unless the car is stolen, abandoned, or involved in a crime. Property owners must arrange to tow themselves.
What happens if my tenant’s car gets towed?
If a tenant’s vehicle was towed legally due to violations, they will need to contact the tow yard and pay applicable fees.
Can I remove an abandoned car from my property?
Yes, but you must follow CVC 22658 guidelines, including a 72-hour waiting period in some cases.
What is a “drop fee”?
If the owner of the car arrives while the tow truck is hooking up the vehicle, they can pay a drop fee to prevent the tow from proceeding.
Who do I call to find my missing car?
Contact the tow company listed on posted property signs or call local law enforcement to check towing records.

Conclusion

Dealing with unauthorized vehicles on private property can be frustrating, but by understanding your rights and following legal procedures, you can maintain control over your parking areas.
At Freeway Towing El Cajon, we’re committed to helping property owners enforce their parking rules legally and efficiently. If you need a trusted San Diego towing service, contact us today!