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Private-property towing in Chicago: the relocation rules
A tow from a private lot in Chicago is a relocation. State law and ICC rules apply in Cook County, and Chicago's Municipal Code adds more protections.
General information, not legal advice. The papers you got from the police, the tow company, the storage lot or a state agency control your dates. Agencies change phone numbers and steps, so check the agency's own page too.
1. Before the tow
The relocator needs written authorization from the property owner. Signs must be posted at least 24 hours before a car is towed from the lot; Chicago requires them at every entrance and exit, 4 to 7 feet high, with who may park, the fee and the ICC's contact.
- No tow from a space where the car was allowed to park.
- No tow with a person inside the car (Chicago).
- Private booting is banned in Chicago.
Sources: 92 Ill. Adm. Code Part 1710 (JCAR); Municipal Code ch. 9-84 (American Legal Publishing)
2. At the scene and at the lot
If you arrive before the car is fully removed and can drive it away, it may not be towed. Chicago relocators must take a dated photo before the tow and record truck video, and give them free on request. The lot must post the Towing Bill of Rights, give you a paper copy, and let you reach your belongings.
- Relocators must accept cash and credit and debit cards.
- Since January 1, 2026, medicine, car seats, glasses, food, IDs, cash and cards, wallets and some other items cannot be held for the bill.
Sources: Municipal Code ch. 9-84 (American Legal Publishing); 625 ILCS 5/18a-501 (Illinois General Assembly)
3. When rules are broken
Under ICC rules a relocator may not collect anything if the relocation did not follow the law, and must refund overcharges. Chicago adds restitution of actual costs for certain violations. Complaints go to the ICC Police at 847-294-4326.
Sources: 92 Ill. Adm. Code Part 1710 (JCAR); ICC Police (Illinois Commerce Commission)
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