How Much Are Impound Fees in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts caps impound charges by state law: up to $132 to release plus up to $35/day storage. Retrieve it fast - fees add up every day.
Reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Massachusetts statutes and regulator schedules.
Massachusetts Impound Cost by Days Held (2026)
| Time in impound | Legal maximum |
|---|---|
| 1 day | $167 |
| 3 days | $237 |
| 7 days | $377 |
| 14 days | $622 |
These are the Massachusetts statutory maximums for a standard passenger car (outdoor storage); indoor storage, heavier vehicles, or local ordinances can run higher. The $132 base covers up to 5 miles and 1 hour; additional mileage is +$4.40/mile per 220 CMR 272.03. Boston has supplemental local ordinances and a tow-hearing process that may affect effective costs.
Max tow fee: $132 statewide cap to tow up to 5 miles (incl. 1 hr), +$4.40/mile over 5 mi; set by MA Dept. of Public Utilities (220 CMR 272.03, eff. 12/13/2023)
Storage: Regulated; approximately $35/day
Notification: Before removal, property controller must notify police chief in writing (vehicle info, addresses, towing company). Written notice to owner required by registered mail within 7 days of tow. Non-compliance = mandatory release at no charge. (M.G.L. c. 266, § 120D)
Sources & Legal References
- M.G.L. c. 159B, § 6B - statutory authority + $35 storage cap
malegislature.gov
Regulated by Massachusetts Division of Standards.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Massachusetts'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 Massachusetts impound bill is too high?
If you were charged above Massachusetts'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 →Massachusetts Impound FAQs
How much does it cost to get a car out of impound in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, expect an initial tow of about $132 to release (the Massachusetts cap) plus daily storage of $35 per day (the Massachusetts statutory cap for outdoor storage), plus any administrative/release fees. The longer the car sits, the more you pay - so retrieve it quickly. $132 statewide cap to tow up to 5 miles (incl. 1 hr), +$4.40/mile over 5 mi; set by MA Dept. of Public Utilities (220 CMR 272.03, eff. 12/13/2023).
How much is the daily impound storage fee in Massachusetts?
Daily storage in Massachusetts runs $35 per day (the Massachusetts statutory cap for outdoor storage). State rule: Regulated; approximately $35/day. 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 Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
Yes. If you were charged above the legal maximum or the tow broke Massachusetts rules, request an itemized receipt, demand a refund of any illegal charges, and file a complaint with the Massachusetts Division of Standards. Keep every receipt and photograph the signage.
What are the towing rate caps in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts Division of Standards sets maximum rates for non-consensual tows, typically $100-$150 for standard vehicles. Storage fees are regulated at approximately $35 per day. Boston may have slightly different rate schedules.
How do I get a tow hearing in Boston?
Contact the City of Boston Transportation Department to request a tow hearing. You generally have 7-14 days to request a hearing. Bring all documentation including photos, receipts, and any witness information.