Private Property Towing in San Diego: Best Practices for Property Owners

Owning property in San Diego comes with many responsibilities, including managing your parking spaces. Unauthorized vehicles can create issues for businesses, apartments, and private lots. If you have ever faced vehicles blocking access, parking illegally, or even being abandoned on your property, private property towing might be necessary.

But before calling a tow truck, it’s essential to understand the laws, your rights, and the best practices to ensure a smooth towing process while avoiding legal trouble. This guide covers everything you need to know about private property towing in San Diego.

Understanding Private Property Towing Laws in San Diego

When and Why You Can Tow a Vehicle From Your Property

Private property owners have the right to tow unauthorized vehicles, but the process must follow California laws. Some common situations where towing is justified include:
Unauthorized parking — If a vehicle is parked on your property without permission.
Blocking driveways or emergency exits — This is a safety hazard and must be addressed immediately.
Parking in reserved spots without authorization — Important for apartment complexes, businesses, and HOAs.
Abandoned vehicles — If a car appears to be abandoned, it may need to be removed following proper legal procedures.
Vehicles violating posted parking rules — If clear signs indicate towing enforcement, owners have a right to tow.

California Towing Regulations Every Property Owner Must Follow

To legally tow a vehicle in San Diego, property owners must comply with California’s towing laws, including:
Signage Requirements: A visible sign (at least 17x22 inches) must be posted at all entrances stating that unauthorized vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense. The sign must include the name and phone number of the towing company.
Notification to Law Enforcement: After towing, the police must be notified within 30 minutes, providing details about the vehicle and tow company.
Waiting Period for Abandoned Vehicles: If a vehicle is abandoned on private property, the owner must wait 96 hours before requesting a tow.
Reasonable Distance to Storage Yard: The vehicle must be taken to a location within a 10-mile radius unless otherwise specified by law.

Common Legal Mistakes to Avoid

Not posting proper towing signs — Leads to legal disputes with vehicle owners.
Failing to notify law enforcement — Can result in fines and penalties.
Using an unlicensed tow company — Always verify the company is properly registered and insured.
Improper towing of rental or leased vehicles — Special regulations may apply.

How to Handle Unauthorized Parking on Your Property

Steps to Take Before Calling a Tow Truck

Before taking action, follow these steps to ensure compliance with the law:
Document the Violation: Take photos of the car, its license plate, and any visible parking restrictions.
Check for Special Circumstances: Is the car in a fire lane or blocking emergency exits? If so, immediate towing may be required.
Attempt to Locate the Owner: If possible, notify the driver before towing, especially in residential areas.
Verify Towing Company Credentials: Ensure they are licensed and follow California towing laws.
Keep Records of Incidents: Maintain documentation for potential legal disputes.

Proper Signage and Legal Requirements

If you manage an apartment complex, business, or HOA, it’s crucial to have proper signs in place. Signs must be:
Placed at every entrance
Clearly visible with bold lettering
Include the tow company’s name and phone number
Display contact details for law enforcement

How to Document Violations to Avoid Liability

To protect yourself from legal disputes, always keep records:
Photos and videos — Capture proof of the violation.
Time-stamped records — Note when you discovered the violation.
Tow company details — Keep the invoice and contact information of the towing provider.
Written notices — If applicable, notify the vehicle owner before towing.

Choosing the Right Towing Company for Your Property

What to Look for in a Professional Towing Service

Not all towing companies operate with integrity. When hiring a towing provider, ensure they:
Are licensed and insured
Offer 24/7 towing services
Have reasonable pricing with no hidden fees
Use modern, damage-free towing methods
Follow California private property towing laws

Provide detailed invoices and transparent service agreements

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Towing Company

Are you licensed to tow in San Diego?
Do you provide 24/7 emergency towing?
What are your rates for private property towing?
How quickly can you respond to towing requests?
Can you provide references from other property owners?
Do you have experience with apartment complexes and commercial properties?

Why Experience and Licensing Matter

Hiring an experienced towing company helps prevent damages, lawsuits, and illegal tows. A reputable tow service will handle the process professionally while keeping property owners compliant with the law.

Emergency Towing Services for Property Owners

Handling Abandoned and Illegally Parked Cars

Abandoned vehicles can be an eyesore and a liability. If a car is left unattended for more than 96 hours, report it to local law enforcement before towing. If the vehicle is blocking an emergency lane or entrance, it can be towed immediately.

How to Request Immediate Towing Assistance

If a car is causing a hazard, follow these steps:
Contact a licensed towing company with 24/7 availability.
Provide details such as location, vehicle make/model, and reason for tow.
Notify law enforcement if necessary.
Ensure proper documentation before initiating a tow.

When to Involve Law Enforcement

Call the police before towing if:
The vehicle appears to be stolen.
It has been abandoned for an extended period.
There is a dispute with the vehicle owner.
You suspect the vehicle may be involved in criminal activity.

Benefits of Hiring a Local Towing Company in San Diego

Faster Response Times and Local Expertise
Local towing companies understand San Diego’s parking laws and can respond quickly. Their familiarity with the area ensures efficient service.

Affordable Towing Solutions for Businesses and HOAs

A trusted local towing service can offer affordable solutions for ongoing property management needs. Many provide customized contracts for businesses, apartment complexes, and homeowner associations.

Reliable Service With Fair Pricing

Avoid hidden fees and unethical towing practices by working with a transparent and reputable tow company.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does Private Property Towing Cost in San Diego?
Costs vary based on vehicle size and towing distance, but expect to pay between $150 — $350 for a private property tow.
Can I Tow a Car Without Notifying the Owner?
Yes, as long as legal signage is posted and towing laws are followed. However, contacting the owner first is recommended if possible.
What Happens if a Vehicle Owner Disputes the Tow?
If a vehicle is towed legally, the owner must pay retrieval fees. If they dispute it, they may file a complaint with local law enforcement or the California DMV.

Conclusion

Managing parking violations on private property can be stressful, but the right towing company makes the process easy and legal. If you need fast, reliable, and legally compliant private property towing in San Diego, Freeway Towing is here to help.