Private-property tows in San Jose: the City's extra rules
San Jose has some of California's most detailed local rules for tows from private lots.
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.
Police approval and a signed receipt
A property owner needs the police chief's approval, after an inspection of the signs, before having cars towed. The owner or agent (never the tow company) must sign the tow receipt saying the required signs were posted, except in clearly marked fire lanes and disabled zones.
Sources: San Jose Municipal Code sections 6.66.240, 6.66.270
Signs
Each entrance sign must be at least 18 by 24 inches, use set wording and letter sizes, and give the SJPD auto desk and the tow company's name and phone. The code says the property owner is liable to the vehicle owner if required signs were not properly posted.
If you come back before it leaves
Once you return and object, the car may not be removed, and you need no ID to object; you must then move it to a legal spot within five minutes. No fee may be charged to drop or release the car between the parking spot and the storage yard.
Reporting, paying and complaining
The tow company must call the SJPD auto desk within 20 minutes after leaving the property. Tow businesses must take cash, personal checks or Visa and MasterCard, and must post their permit, rates and the tow liaison number, (408) 277-4636. Overcharging and illegal towing are grounds for suspending or revoking a tow permit.
Sources: San Jose Municipal Code sections 6.66.190, 6.66.250, 6.66.290, 6.66.300, 6.66.330
Check what the law required for your tow
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