What Sacramento's police rotation tow companies may charge and must do
Companies on SPD's rotation list sign an agreement with the City. The posted sample shows what they agree to.
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.
Rates and banned fees
At most $235 per tow with a one-hour minimum, billed portal to portal and itemized for extra time; storage at most $60 a day; after-hours release at most half the hourly rate and only when no one is on duty. Charges start only after the car is hooked up and on its way. Fees for postage, cleanup, lockout or dolly use are not allowed.
Sources: 2024 Tow Rotation Services Agreement (sample), Attachment 1, sec. 2
Overcharges
Overcharging is cause for suspension until the company proves to the Chief of Police that the customer was repaid, plus a $100 penalty for each overcharge. If the City decides a tow was invalid and pays for it, the company bills the City and may not demand payment from the owner first.
Sources: 2024 Tow Rotation Services Agreement (sample), secs. 2(F)-(G)
Postings, hours and your things
Rotation yards must be open at least 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, post all fees and the lien-documentation notice, hand out the vehicle-owner rights notice, release personal property to the registered owner with ID during business hours, and keep cars in like condition.
Sources: 2024 Tow Rotation Services Agreement (sample), secs. 4, 5, 7
A caution
The City posts a sample agreement, not the signed contracts. The signed versions may differ.
Sources: SPD Tow Rotation Program page
Check what the law required for your tow
Last checked .