Towing records, rates and law changes in Riverside

Plain-language facts about towing in Riverside. Every fact links to its official source, and we show the date we last checked it.

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What's in the Library

What changedNew laws, rules and rates that affect towed cars in Riverside, in plain words.
Tow and storage ratesWhat tows and storage could cost in Riverside, by year, with the source for each amount.
Is my car being sold?How a towed car can end up sold in Riverside: the notices, the waiting periods and where sales happen.
Public recordsAudits, reports, rules and contracts about towing in Riverside, with links to the official copies.
Research and guidesPlain-language guides, plus the reports, studies and court cases behind them.
History of towing in RiversideA dated timeline, with a source for every entry.
California-wide changesNew state towing laws for all of California, in the Towed in LA Library.
Towed in another state?Find your car, your deadline and your state's towing rules, for every state and DC.

New to this? Start with Your car was impounded by Riverside police: finding it, the release form and the hearing. ¿Prefiere español? Biblioteca en español.

Newest updates

July 1, 2026 · Riverside rates

Riverside police vehicle release fee: $126 for most tows, $393 for 'Safe Streets Act' tows

The City's fee schedule for fiscal year 2026-27 lists the Police Department's vehicle release fee at $126 for most tows and $393 for tows it labels 'Safe Streets Act' tows, plus a $74 towing referral fee in some cases. The tow company's own charges are capped by Municipal Code section 5.15.080.

In effect since July 1, 2026.

Source: City of Riverside Schedule of Fees and Charges, July 1, 2026 (Police, codes 3130 and 3134)

Last checked October 7, 2026.

Check what the law required for your tow

July 1, 2024 · Riverside rates

Riverside's release fee for most tows rises from $20 to $119.50

City fee schedules from 2017 through 2023-24 list a $20 vehicle release fee for most tows. The Police Department's 2024-25 schedule, dated July 1, 2024, lists $119.50. The fee for 'Safe Streets Act' tows stayed $372 until 2026.

From July 1, 2024. The 2025-26 schedule was not found.

Source: Police Department Fees and Charges FY 2024-25; Schedule of Fees and Charges FY 2023-24

Last checked October 7, 2026.

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About this Library

We read public records, laws and official reports and explain them in plain words. We do not say that any company broke the law; we report what the records show, with a link so you can check. If you see a mistake, email corrections@towedhelp.org.