How Much Are Impound Fees in Illinois?
Getting a car out of impound in Illinois usually means an initial tow of $150-$350 plus daily storage of $20-$60/day. Retrieve it fast - fees add up every day.
Reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Illinois statutes and regulator schedules.
Illinois 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. Illinois has no single statewide dollar cap, so actual fees vary by lot and vehicle.
Max tow fee: ICC-regulated relocation (private-property) tows: light-duty (under 8,000 lbs) capped at $238.20 plus a $2.50 invoice fee; higher weight classes cost more. Chicago sets its own rates ($250 under 8,000 lbs / $350 at or above).
Storage: ICC-regulated: no storage charge for the first 24 hours after the tow; ICC-capped daily rate (per 24-hour period) thereafter.
Notification: Towing service must notify the jurisdictional law-enforcement agency within 30 minutes of completing the tow (625 ILCS 5/4-203); ICC-regulated relocators must notify within 1 hour of removal (625 ILCS 5/18a-300).
Sources & Legal References
Regulated by Illinois Commerce Commission.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Illinois'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 Illinois impound bill is too high?
If you were charged above Illinois'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 →Illinois Impound FAQs
How much does it cost to get a car out of impound in Illinois?
In Illinois, 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. ICC-regulated relocation (private-property) tows: light-duty (under 8,000 lbs) capped at $238.20 plus a $2.50 invoice fee; higher weight classes cost more. Chicago sets its own rates ($250 under 8,000 lbs / $350 at or above).
How much is the daily impound storage fee in Illinois?
Daily storage in Illinois runs about $20-$60 per day. State rule: ICC-regulated: no storage charge for the first 24 hours after the tow; ICC-capped daily rate (per 24-hour period) thereafter.. 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 Illinois?
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 Illinois?
Yes. If you were charged above the legal maximum or the tow broke Illinois rules, request an itemized receipt, demand a refund of any illegal charges, and file a complaint with the Illinois Commerce Commission. Keep every receipt and photograph the signage.
What are the maximum towing rates in Illinois?
The Illinois Commerce Commission sets maximum rates that vary by vehicle weight class and region. Standard vehicle tow rates are typically $150-$250. Chicago has its own fee schedule. Check the ICC website for current rates.
How do I get my car out of the Chicago impound?
Visit the City of Chicago Auto Pound where your vehicle is stored. Bring valid ID, vehicle registration, and payment. You may need to first obtain a release from the police district if the tow was police-ordered. Fees include tow charge, storage, and any outstanding tickets.