Impounded Vehicles

Find an Impounded Vehicle

The following documentation is required to release an impounded vehicle to a valid licensed driver:*

• Current Vehicle Registration
• Valid Driver's License

The following documentation is required to tow an impounded vehicle off the lot:*

• Vehicle Title
• State Issued ID

*Owners who present a vehicle title without providing a current vehicle registration will be required to have the vehicle towed from the impound lot.

*Owners who present a state issued ID must have a licensed driver to drive the vehicle out of the impound lot or the vehicle must be towed.

Applicable Fees

• Towing fee: $125*
• Administrative fee: $30 (only applicable if certified notification has been sent)
• Storage fee: $18 (only applicable if certified notification has been sent)
• Any outstanding parking tickets
• Any other associated towing fee

*This applies to vehicles less than 7,000 pounds (most vehicles). Additional fees will be charged for vehicles weighing more than 7,000 pounds.

*Parking Services accepts cash, credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex and Discover), and money orders payable to Columbus City Treasurer. Please note: We do not accept personal checks for impound related fees unless from an approved agency.

Vehicle Owners

Vehicles may be released to the vehicle owner or a relative with the same last name. Owners who wish to authorize a person (other than a relative) to obtain a vehicle release must complete a Notarized Authorization of Release form(PDF, 421KB) and provide proof of ownership documentation.

Vehicle Repossessions

Banks and Lienholders must complete a Hold Harmless Letter(PDF, 513KB) listing the company or authorized person who can obtain a vehicle release. Company agents, employees or authorized individuals must present a driver’s license and proof of employment from their employer to obtain a vehicle release.

Insurance Companies / Salvage Companies

Vehicle owners must complete a Notarized Authorization of Release form(PDF, 421KB) authorizing their insurance company to obtain a vehicle release. Proof of ownership must be presented by the insurance company or agent at the time of vehicle release. Salvage or towing companies must have a notarized letter of authorization to pick up a vehicle on behalf of an insurance company. Insurance agents, salvage or towing companies must show proof of employment from their employer to obtain a vehicle release.

Payment of all impoundment fees and all current and outstanding parking tickets is required before a vehicle release is authorized. Payment can be made with cash or credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex and Discover).