San Diego Parking Lot Towing: Keeping Your Property Safe from Illegal Parking

 As a property owner or manager in San Diego, maintaining control over your parking lot is crucial. Unauthorized vehicles taking up space can lead to frustration for tenants, customers, and even emergency responders. Whether you manage an apartment complex, a shopping center, or a commercial property, illegal parking can disrupt daily operations and create safety hazards.

This is where professional parking lot towing services step in. By partnering with a reliable towing company, you can enforce parking regulations, ensure compliance with local laws, and keep your property organized and safe.

Why Private Property Towing is Necessary in San Diego

Common Issues with Unauthorized Parking

Illegal parking in private lots is a growing problem in San Diego. Some of the most common issues property owners face include:
Non-residents Parking in Private Lots: People often park in private lots to avoid paying for public parking, taking up spots meant for tenants or customers.
Abandoned Vehicles: Cars left in parking lots for days or weeks can make the property look unkempt and reduce available parking.
Blocking Emergency Lanes or Fire Hydrants: Vehicles parked in restricted areas pose serious safety risks and may prevent emergency responders from accessing the property.
Illegally Parked Commercial Vehicles: Unauthorized large trucks and commercial vehicles can damage pavement and create congestion.

How Illegal Parking Affects Property Owners

When unauthorized vehicles take up parking spaces, property owners and managers face several challenges:
Tenant and Customer Complaints: Residents and customers expect to have access to designated parking. Illegal parking can lead to frustration and loss of business.
Liability Issues: If an unauthorized vehicle causes an accident or obstructs emergency access, the property owner may be held responsible.
Loss of Property Value: A poorly managed parking area can make the entire property look neglected, reducing its appeal and value.

How Professional Towing Services Help

What a Towing Company Can Do for You

Professional towing companies help property owners by:
Monitoring and enforcing parking rules.
Removing abandoned or unauthorized vehicles.
Installing proper signage to deter illegal parking.
Offering 24/7 emergency towing and roadside assistance.
Compliance with California Private Property Towing Laws
In California, private property towing is regulated under CVC 22658(a).

Property owners must comply with specific laws when towing

unauthorized vehicles, including:
Posting properly visible signs that indicate towing policies.
Providing the local police department with details of the tow.
Allowing vehicle owners to retrieve their personal belongings even if they cannot immediately reclaim the vehicle.
Hiring a towing company familiar with California laws ensures that your towing practices remain legal and ethical.

How to Prevent Unauthorized Parking on Your Property

Signage and Parking Permits

One of the best ways to prevent unauthorized parking is by installing clear and legal signage. These signs should include:
Warnings about towing for unauthorized vehicles.
Contact information for the towing company.
Details about parking permits and restrictions.
For residential properties, requiring parking permits helps keep track of authorized vehicles and makes enforcement easier.

Regular Monitoring and Enforcement

A parking lot that is regularly monitored discourages illegal parking. Property managers can:
Conduct random inspections.
Work with security personnel to report violations.
Use surveillance cameras to identify repeat offenders.

What to Do If Your Vehicle Gets Towed in San Diego

How to Find Your Towed Vehicle

If your car has been towed from private property, follow these steps to locate it:
Check the Posted Signage: Towing signs usually have the contact number of the company that towed your car.
Call Local Law Enforcement: Tow companies must report impounded vehicles to the police, so they may have the information.
Contact the Towing Company: If you know the company that towed your car, call them directly to retrieve your vehicle.

What Are Your Rights After a Tow?

You have the right to retrieve personal belongings from your vehicle even if you can’t pay the towing fees immediately.
If your vehicle was wrongfully towed, you can file a complaint and may be entitled to reimbursement.
If you return before your car is removed, you may be able to pay a reduced “drop fee” to get your vehicle released on the spot.

Choosing the Right Towing Company in San Diego

What to Look for in a Reliable Towing Service

When selecting a towing company to manage your private property towing, consider the following:
24/7 Availability: Illegal parking can happen at any time, so a company that offers round-the-clock service is crucial.
Fast Response Time: A reputable towing service should arrive promptly when called.
Proper Licensing and Insurance: Verify that the company is fully insured and compliant with California towing laws.
Positive Customer Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials to ensure they have a good reputation.

Freeway Towing — Your Trusted San Diego Parking Lot Towing Partner

At Freeway Towing, we specialize in private property towing across San Diego. Our services include:
Fast and legal removal of unauthorized vehicles
Free “Tow Away” signage installation
24/7 roadside assistance, including car unlocking, gas delivery, and tire changes
Digital service updates for property managers
With our experienced team and commitment to compliance, we help property owners maintain control over their parking lots and enforce their policies legally and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Parking Lot Towing in San Diego

Can I Have a Car Towed Off My Property Without Notice?
Yes, as long as you have the proper signage posted and comply with California’s towing laws.
What Happens If Someone Parks in a Fire Lane or Blocks an Emergency Exit?
Vehicles parked in fire lanes or emergency exits can be towed immediately without notice, as they pose a safety risk.
Do Towing Companies Offer Roadside Assistance?
Yes, many towing companies offer services like car unlocking, gas delivery, jumpstarts, and tire changes in addition to towing.
How Much Does It Cost to Retrieve a Towed Vehicle?
Towing fees vary depending on the location, distance, and time the vehicle spends in storage. The cost can range from $200 to $500 or more.
Can I Dispute a Tow If I Believe It Was Illegal?
Yes. If your vehicle was towed unfairly, you can file a complaint with local law enforcement or the California Department of Consumer Affairs.

Conclusion

Illegal parking can be a frustrating and costly issue for property owners in San Diego. By working with a professional towing company, you can keep your parking lot clear, ensure tenant and customer satisfaction, and stay compliant with California towing laws.
If you need reliable private property towing in San Diego, contact Freeway Towing today. We’re here to help you enforce your parking rules and keep your property safe!