FACTS CONCERNING REMOVAL OF VEHICLES FROM PRIVATE PROPERTY

If an unauthorized vehicle is parked on private property, the California Vehicle Code authorizes the owner of any private lot to, subsequent to notifying the police, cause the removal of a vehicle to the nearest public garage, provided there are properly posted signs at all entrances to the property that prohibits public parking.

CVC 22658 AUTHORIZES THE REMOVAL PROVIDED THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS ARE MET:

The owner or person in lawful possession of any private property, including an association of a common interest              development..., may cause the removal of a vehicle parked on the property to a storage facility...under any of the              following circumstances:

1. There is a sign displayed in plain view at all entrances prohibiting public parking (see sign requirements).
2. The vehicle has been issued a notice of parking violation and 96 hours have elapsed since the issuance of that notice.
3. The vehicle is on private property and lacks an engine, transmission, wheels, tires, doors, windshield, or any other major  part or equipment necessary to operate safely on the highways, the owner or person in lawful possession of the private  property has notified the local law enforcement agency and 24 hours have elapsed since that notification.
4. The lot or parcel upon which the vehicle is parked is improved with a single family dwelling.(b) The tow truck operator  removing the vehicle, shall immediately give notice in writing to the registered owner and legal owner (if known) the    following information: the fact of the removal, the grounds for removal, and the place to which the vehicle has been    removed. 

HOW TO REMOVE A VEHICLE

The property owner or agent must contact the Galt Police Department at (209) 366-7000 prior to determine if the vehicle can be towed for impound after it is determined it is not stolen, part of a crime, or that of a missing person, etc., and provide the following information once the vehicle has been removed.

• Date/Time the vehicle was removed
• Tow company name
• The address or location where the vehicle was removed
• The year, make, model, color of the vehicle
• The license plate information, e.g. state and number
• The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

If the property owner or agent cause the removal of a vehicle from private property and the sign requirement has not been met, the property owner or agent could be liable for any towing and/or storage charges, up to four times the amount.

PRIVATE PROPERTY AUTHORIZED SIGN

Signs shall be made of metal, all-weather, fade resistant materials and shall have black “Series C” letters upon a white background. The size shown shall be the minimum. No variation of information provided is acceptable. This sign shall be posted at ALL entrances to the area where vehicles may be parked.

If you have any questions regarding private property tows, please contact the Traffic Unit at (209) 366-7000. Also, you may access a flyer containing this information, HERE.