How to Appeal Tow Fees in San Bernardino, CA

Transportation California 3 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of California

In San Bernardino, California, vehicle owners may be charged tow and impound fees after a vehicle is removed by police, private tow contractors, or city enforcement. This guide explains how to check the legal basis for a tow, gather evidence, request release or a hearing, and appeal charges with the city or through state procedures where applicable. Follow these steps promptly: many release, appeal, and hearing time limits are short and may affect your right to recover the vehicle or contest fees. Contact the enforcing department listed below as soon as you discover your vehicle has been towed.

Penalties & Enforcement

San Bernardino enforces vehicle removal, impound, and towing rules through municipal code provisions and applicable California Vehicle Code sections. Specific fine amounts, schedules for administrative fees, and per-day storage charges are not specified on the cited city code page; see the official sources for details [1] and state towing law [2].

  • Typical fee types: tow charge, per-day storage, administrative processing fee (amounts not specified on the cited page).
  • Enforcer: San Bernardino Police Department and authorized towing contractors; code enforcement or parking division enforces municipal towing rules.
  • Complaint and inspection pathways: contact the Police Department or Parking Division listed in Resources below.
  • Escalation: the municipal code and state law describe administrative release, hearings, and civil remedies; specific escalation fines (first/repeat/continuing) are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to release or retain vehicle, administrative holds, or court actions may be available; specific procedures or suspensions are not specified on the cited city page.
Act quickly: delays can increase storage costs and limit appeal rights.

Applications & Forms

The city code and the state Vehicle Code set out procedures for release and hearings. The specific names, numbers, fees, or downloaded forms for a "Tow Hearing Request" or similar city form are not specified on the cited municipal page; check the enforcing department for a current form or submission instructions [1].

  • If a hearing form exists, submit it to the Police Department or Parking Division by the deadline stated on that form (not specified on the cited page).
  • Time limits: many procedures require prompt action; specific time periods are not specified on the cited city page but are governed by municipal rules and state law [2].

How-To

  1. Confirm where and why your vehicle was towed: note the tow company, impound location, and reason listed on the paperwork or police report.
  2. Contact the listed towing company for release instructions and an itemized fee schedule; ask for written receipts.
  3. Request a hearing or file a dispute with the enforcing department immediately if you believe the tow was improper.
  4. Gather evidence: photos, witness statements, permits, signage, and the police report or citation.
  5. Attend any scheduled administrative hearing and present your evidence; follow the department’s instructions for appeals to court if the administrative decision is adverse.
Keep all receipts and photos in a single folder to support your claim at hearing.

FAQ

How long do I have to request a tow hearing?
Time limits vary by procedure; the municipal page does not specify a uniform deadline. Contact the enforcing department or see state law for related requirements [1][2].
Who can recover my car?
The registered owner or an authorized agent with identification and proof of ownership may recover the vehicle following payment of lawful fees and completion of release requirements.
Can I get towing fees refunded?
If a hearing or court finds the tow unlawful you may be entitled to refund or reduction; details depend on the decision and any city or state remedies (not specified on the cited page).

Key Takeaways

  • Act immediately: appeal windows and storage fees make prompt action important.
  • Collect evidence: photos, permits, and receipts strengthen your appeal.
  • Use official channels: contact the enforcing department for forms and hearing procedures.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of San Bernardino Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances.
  2. [2] California Vehicle Code, section 22658 (private property towing) and related towing provisions.

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