How Much Are Impound Fees in Alabama?
Getting a car out of impound in Alabama usually means an initial tow of $150-$350 plus daily storage of $20-$60/day. Retrieve it fast - fees add up every day.
Fee limits exist only at the local level: Code of Alabama Section 32-13-2 leaves fees to a "reasonable" standard statewide, and cities such as Birmingham and Montgomery maintain local non-consensual tow-fee ordinances. No statewide dollar figures can be cited.
Reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Alabama statutes and regulator schedules.
Alabama Impound Cost by Days Held (2026)
| Time in impound | Estimated total |
|---|---|
| 1 day | ~$170-$410 |
| 3 days | ~$210-$530 |
| 7 days | ~$290-$770 |
| 14 days | ~$430-$1,190 |
Estimate = a typical tow + storage. Alabama has no single statewide dollar cap, so actual fees vary by lot and vehicle.
Max tow fee: No statewide cap; local ordinances may apply
Storage: No statewide cap
Sources & Legal References
- Ala. Admin. Code r. 760-X-1-.25 (Nonconsensual Towing), ALEA, eff. Mar 10 2019, in force 2026
admincode.legislature.state.al.us
Regulated by Alabama Attorney General Consumer Protection Division.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Alabama's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
How to Get Your Car Out Fast
- Call the local police non-emergency line to confirm which lot holds your car and get a case number.
- Bring a photo ID, proof of ownership (registration or title), and payment.
- Many lots require proof of current insurance to release the car - if yours lapsed, get a policy or SR-22 quote first.
- Ask for an itemized receipt and retrieve personal belongings (allowed during business hours in most states).
Think your Alabama impound bill is too high?
If you were charged above Alabama's legal maximum, you can dispute it. Build a ready-to-send demand letter on your state's fee limits and send it yourself - in minutes.
Get the documents to dispute my bill →Alabama Impound FAQs
How much does it cost to get a car out of impound in Alabama?
In Alabama, expect an initial tow of roughly $150-$350 plus daily storage of about $20-$60 per day, plus any administrative/release fees. The longer the car sits, the more you pay - so retrieve it quickly. No statewide cap; local ordinances may apply.
How much is the daily impound storage fee in Alabama?
Daily storage in Alabama runs about $20-$60 per day. State rule: No statewide cap. Fees accrue every calendar day (sometimes counting partial days), which is why retrieving the vehicle fast saves the most money.
What do I need to get my car out of impound in Alabama?
Bring a government photo ID, proof of ownership (registration or title), and payment. Many lots also require proof of current insurance to release the vehicle - if your coverage has lapsed, get a policy or SR-22 quote first so you can release the car.
Can I dispute impound or towing fees in Alabama?
Yes. If you were charged above the legal maximum or the tow broke Alabama rules, request an itemized receipt, demand a refund of any illegal charges, and file a complaint with the Alabama Attorney General Consumer Protection Division. Keep every receipt and photograph the signage.
Are there tow rate caps in Alabama?
Alabama does not have statewide tow rate caps. However, cities like Birmingham and Montgomery enforce local ordinances that limit non-consensual towing fees. For consensual tows, always get a written estimate before authorizing service.
How do I get my car back after it was towed in Alabama?
Contact local police to find out which tow company has your vehicle. Bring valid ID, proof of ownership (registration or title), and payment. You can retrieve personal items during business hours even before paying the full tow fee.