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Towed from a private lot in Tacoma: state rules and the Pierce County hearing
Tacoma's code does not regulate private-property towing or set private tow rates. State law (RCW 46.55) and Department of Licensing rules apply, as in the statewide guide.
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.
Finding the car
The tow company must notify police when it impounds a car, and nonresidential lots must post the tow firm's name and phone number. The City's police services page lists the non-emergency number, (253) 287-4455.
Sources: RCW 46.55.100(1); RCW 46.55.070; Tacoma Police: TPD Services
The hearing in Pierce County District Court
The petition is filed in person at the County-City Building, 930 Tacoma Ave S, Room 239, weekdays 8:30 to 4:00, with an $83 fee (cash, Visa or MasterCard). The court's page counts 10 days from the attempted or actual retrieval; the state statute counts 10 days from the date the tow company gave the notice and form. The court lists bringing the tow company's hearing request and notice forms and the tow bill.
Sources: Pierce County District Court: Vehicle Impound Cases; Fee schedule (Dec. 8, 2025); RCW 46.55.120(2)(b)
If the car was sold
The court's page refers people to the Pierce County Auditor, (253) 798-7427. Leftover auction money goes to the state Department of Licensing and can be claimed within one year (see the statewide lien-sale guide).
Sources: Pierce County District Court: Vehicle Impound Cases; RCW 46.55.130(2)(h)
Check what the tow company had to do
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