California Vehicle Code 22658 is the primary law governing when and how vehicles can be towed from private property. For property managers and HOAs, understanding these rules isn't optional—it's essential for avoiding liability and ensuring lawful enforcement.
What CVC 22658 Covers: Plain English Summary
CVC 22658 establishes the legal framework for removing unauthorized vehicles from private property. The law covers:
- When property owners can have vehicles towed without owner consent
- Required signage specifications and placement
- Authorization procedures between property owners and tow companies
- Notification requirements to law enforcement
- Vehicle owner rights and fee limitations
When a Tow Is Allowed: Common Legal Scenarios
Private property towing is permitted in specific situations. The most common include:
Common Tow-Eligible Situations
- Vehicle parked in a clearly marked tow-away zone
- Vehicle blocking access to property or driveways
- Vehicle parked in fire lane or emergency access area
- Vehicle parked in handicap spot without proper placard
- Vehicle parked in reserved/assigned spot without authorization
- Abandoned vehicle (additional procedures may apply)
Signage Requirements Checklist: What the Sign Must Include
Proper signage is the foundation of compliant private property towing. CVC 22658 specifies what your tow-away zone signs must include:
Required Sign Elements
- Clear statement that unauthorized vehicles will be towed at owner's expense
- Name and phone number of tow company
- Address where towed vehicles are stored
- Minimum letter height requirements (typically 1 inch for important text)
- Sign must be clearly visible at each entrance to the property
Authorization Workflow: Who Can Authorize and What Must Be Recorded
Before a tow company can remove a vehicle, proper authorization must be in place:
Identify the Violation
Property owner or agent confirms the vehicle is in violation of posted rules.
Document the Situation
Take timestamped photos showing the violation, signage, and vehicle details.
Provide Written Authorization
Sign authorization form with date, time, violation type, and vehicle description.
Contact Tow Company
Call your contracted tow company with authorization details.
Tow Company Executes
Tow company removes vehicle and handles law enforcement notification.
Required Notifications: Owner/Agent and Tow Operator Timing
CVC 22658 includes specific notification requirements:
| Notification Type | Responsible Party | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Law Enforcement | Tow Company | Within 1 hour of tow |
| Vehicle Owner Inquiry | Tow Company | 24/7 access to information |
| Storage Location Details | Tow Company | Available immediately |
Record Keeping: Photos, Authorization, Retention
Good documentation protects you from disputes and potential lawsuits. Here's what to maintain:
Documentation Checklist
- Timestamped photos of violation and posted signage
- Signed authorization form with date, time, authorizer name
- Copy of tow company receipt or work order
- Record of law enforcement notification confirmation
- Any correspondence with vehicle owner
- Keep records for minimum 3 years - many properties keep 5+ years
- Use digital timestamped photos stored in cloud backup
- Create a standardized form for all tow authorizations
- Consider property management software with towing documentation features
Common Mistakes That Create Liability
Property owners and managers can face significant liability from improper towing. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Towing without proper signage at all entrances
- Failing to get written authorization before tow
- Using a tow company that doesn't comply with CVC 22658
- Inconsistent enforcement (selective towing can appear discriminatory)
- Not keeping documentation of the violation
- Towing vehicles too quickly without proper waiting periods where required