Plain-language facts about towing in San Jose. Every fact links to its official source, and we show the date we last checked it.
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SJPD's fee schedule for July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027 lists a basic tow of $335, storage of $130 a day and an after-hours gate fee of $130, all paid to the tow company. The City's own impound release fee stays $122, its amount since February 13, 2019.
Posted for July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027.
Source: SJPD Public Safety Fees
Last checked .
SJPD Department Order 2025-001 says the City contracted with Autura to automate towing and impounds. Starting February 3, 2025 in two districts, then department-wide, officers fill out an online City of San Jose Tow Slip instead of the paper CHP 180 form.
Order dated February 1, 2025.
Source: SJPD Department Order 2025-001
Last checked .
After a 2018 City Auditor report found San Jose's release fee was set using an unrealistic estimate of staff time, the fee went from $290 to $122, effective February 13, 2019. It is still $122 in 2026.
In effect since February 13, 2019.
Source: SJPD Public Safety Fees (shows 'effective 02/13/2019'); City Auditor Report 18-04
Last checked .
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.