Got Towed?

If you believe your car was towed, call the New Haven Police Department at 946-6316. The police will tell you if it was towed and why, as well as if you owe money for tickets or taxes.

If your car was towed for a serious violation or outstanding parking tickets, you must pay your tickets and get a release form before you can claim your car.

To obtain a release, you must go to the Collections Office, 200 Orange Street (between Elm and Chapel), Room 100. Office hours are 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday. Cash, MasterCard or Visa are the only accepted methods for payment.

When the Collection Office is closed, payments may be made and a release issued at the New Haven Police Department, 1 Union Avenue, near Union Station. Cash (exact amount) is the only accepted form of payment.

If you owe outstanding taxes, you must obtain a tax release to claim your car. This can only be done at the Tax Office at City Hall, 165 Church Street. Office hours are 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday. Only the Tax Office can issue a tax release.

Towing fees and storage charges must also be considered. Ticketed and towed vehicles incur a $77 tow fee payable to the tow company. After the first 24 hours, storage charges are $20 per day for the first 5 days, and $24 per day thereafter.