For HOA boards and community managers
Can an HOA tow cars from private streets and guest parking in California?
Short answer
Yes, if it follows Vehicle Code 22658. The association must post signs at least 17 by 22 inches at every entrance with the tow company and police phone numbers, give written authorization for each tow with someone present to verify the violation, and notify police within one hour. Wrongful tows can cost four times the towing and storage charges.
The main requirements
- Signs. At each vehicle entrance, at least 17 by 22 inches with one-inch lettering, stating that unauthorized vehicles will be removed at the owner's expense, with the phone number of local traffic enforcement and the name and number of each tow company.
- Written authorization for each tow. It identifies the vehicle, the reason, the time, and the person authorizing it, who generally must be present.
- Notice to law enforcement within one hour of authorizing the tow.
- A waiting period in many cases. A vehicle parked without permission usually must be left for an hour before towing unless it blocks a fire lane, a driveway, a hydrant or an accessible space.
Who should authorize the tow
The board decides this in its parking policy. Many associations authorize the manager or the patrol officer to sign. If patrol does it, the officer should photograph the vehicle, the violation and the signs every time.
What we do
Our officers enforce parking the way your rules and the Vehicle Code require, with a photo record for every notice and every tow. Ask association counsel to review your signs and policy first. Details on HOA patrol.
This is general information from a security company, not legal advice. Laws change and details matter, so confirm anything important with your attorney.
Talk to the owner, not a call center.
Call any hour. Michael or a supervisor answers, asks a few questions, and you have a written quote within about two hours.