Vancouver Towing FAQs
City Towing & Impound Questions
The fastest way to check is to call the City of Vancouver Towing Line at 604-685-7246. You can also check the City of Vancouver website. If it was towed for a police matter, call the non-emergency line of the VPD.
Most vehicles towed for parking violations are taken to the City Bylaw Impound Lot at 425 Industrial Avenue. If your car was abandoned or had no insurance, it might be at the Abandoned Vehicle Yard at 1150 East Kent Avenue South.
Expect to pay at least $110 for the flat towing rate plus about $3.32 per kilometre towed. On top of that, there is a $40/day storage fee and a fuel surcharge (currently around 25%). If your car required a dolly to move, add another $40.
You’ll need to bring:
- Your valid Driver’s License (or government photo ID).
- Proof of Ownership (Vehicle Registration).
- Proof of Valid Insurance.
Storage fees start the moment your car hits the lot. If you don't claim it within 48 to 72 hours, some lots may start the process of moving it to a long-term storage area, which can add administrative fees of about $55 to $70.
The daily storage fees will continue to add up. If the vehicle is left for a long period (usually over 30 days) and you haven't made arrangements, the impound lot has the legal right to sell the vehicle to cover the unpaid costs.
Yes, but it’s tricky. You must provide them with a notarized letter of authorization or a completed Owner's Authorization Form from the City, along with a copy of your ID and the vehicle registration. We always recommend picking up your personal car yourself if possible to avoid any potential issues.
Most major lots, including the City's yard, accept Cash, Debit, Visa, and Mastercard. They typically do not accept personal cheques or e-transfers.
Parking Violations & Enforcement Towing
The big ones are:
- Parking in a Rush Hour Zone (7 AM–9 AM or 3 PM–6 PM).
- Blocking a Fire Hydrant or Bus Stop.
- Parking in a No Stopping zone.
- Blocking traffic flow.
Yes. If your vehicle is blocking a public or private driveway so that others can’t get in or out, the City can ticket and tow you immediately.
Yes. Vancouver is very strict about keeping bike lanes clear for safety. Even if it’s just for a minute, it can result in a tow.
Yes. Look for temporary signs (often yellow or white) posted on trees or poles. These are common for film shoots, construction, or seasonal leaf cleaning.
Yes. During major event protocols, enforcement is much faster. If you are in a temporary "No Parking" zone for an event, you will likely be towed the minute the restriction begins.
With Vancouver hosting FIFA 2026, expect heavy enforcement in the Granville Street Pedestrian Zone, Gastown, and all streets immediately surrounding BC Place (Pacific Boulevard, Expo Boulevard, and Griffith Way).
Private Property Towing Rules
Yes, if you are parked without permission or in violation of posted signs. The property owner has a contract with a towing company to keep their lot clear.
Usually, it’s the Strata Council, the Property Manager, or a designated security guard. They must have a written agreement with the towing company.
Yes, if they are parked in a reserved stall or if they exceed the time limit in a visitor stall without a permit.
The lot must have clearly visible signs at the entrances. These signs must state that it's private property and provide the name and phone number of the towing company used.
If you think the tow was illegal (e.g., no signs were posted), you can file a claim through the Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT). It’s usually best to pay to get your car out first so storage fees don't pile up, then dispute the cost later.
ICBC Collision Towing Questions
If you have Collision coverage, ICBC usually covers the cost of the tow and reasonable storage. If you aren't at fault, the other driver's insurance may cover it.
Yes. You have the right to choose who tows your vehicle. Just tell the police or the other driver that you want to call Mundie’s Towing.
You can have it towed to your home, your preferred body shop, or an ICBC Claim Center.
ICBC typically pays the storage fees while your claim is being processed, provided you move the vehicle to a repair shop once they give the go-ahead. Every situation is unique; we recommend double-checking with your insurance provider.
As soon as ICBC tells you where to take it. If you leave it in a tow yard longer than necessary, ICBC might stop covering the storage fees, leaving you with the bill.
Cost & Service Questions
The main factors are the vehicle's weight, the distance, and whether specialized equipment (such as a flatbed or dollies) is needed.
For City-ordered tows and police impounds, the rates are regulated by the Province and the City. For private tows (like if you call us for a breakdown), companies set their own competitive rates. Contact us for information about costs.
Yes. Most companies charge a hook-up fee plus a per-kilometer rate. Some companies charge a base rate, and anything beyond the distance provided within the base rate is extra. Ask your tow company for details before booking a tow service.
Many private companies charge an after-hours fee (usually $50–$100) if you need a tow or want to pick up your car late at night, beyond business hours, or on a statutory holiday.
Vehicle Recovery & Responsibilities
All legitimate towing companies carry insurance for on-hook damage. If you notice damage, document it with photos immediately before leaving the impound lot and report it to the towing company.
- Pay the fees to stop storage costs.
- Keep your receipt and the tow authorization.
- File a dispute with the City of Vancouver (for bylaw tows) or the CRT (for private tows).
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Service Area: Greater Vancouver
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