Think Your Car Was Towed Unfairly? What To Record

If you believe your car was towed unfairly, first establish where it is and who authorized its removal. Keep the collection process and the dispute clearly documented. A disagreement does not resolve itself simply because you refuse to discuss the invoice.

For a private property towing concern, call the municipal police non-emergency line serving the property’s location. Explain whether you are locating a towed vehicle or reporting an unauthorized vehicle. Your local municipal or regional police service can advise on the next step or direct you to the responsible municipal service. Confirm the applicable process before arranging removal.

Locate The Vehicle

Contact the property manager or local parking enforcement office. Give the licence plate, vehicle description, parking address and approximate time. Ask for the towing operator, storage location and a contact number.

Request The Paperwork

• The recorded reason for removal and authorizing party.
• Any notice, tow card or other applicable enforcement document.
• An itemized towing and storage invoice.
• Collection requirements and the current storage charges.
• The appropriate complaint or review contact.

Preserve Your Evidence

Keep parking permits, payment receipts, messages granting permission and photographs of the parking space or signs. Record dates, times and the names of the people you speak with. Make a short factual timeline instead of relying on memory.

Use The Correct Review Process

Ask the authority responsible for the removal which process applies to that address and incident. A parking penalty, the authority to remove a vehicle and a disputed service charge may need different enquiries. If the documents are unclear or a substantial amount is at stake, obtain advice from an Ontario legal professional.

Can A Refund Be Guaranteed?

No. The outcome depends on the evidence and applicable process. Avoid treating a general article as a ruling on your case. For background on documentation, see our Ontario private property towing overview.