How Much Are Impound Fees in South Carolina?
Getting a car out of impound in South Carolina usually means an initial tow of $150-$350 plus daily storage of $20-$60/day. Retrieve it fast - fees add up every day.
No statewide dollar figures exist to populate any fee field. Rates vary entirely by local jurisdiction. Any dollar amounts found (~125 dollars standard non-consensual tow in Charleston/Columbia; West Columbia municipal code Sec. 7-3-16; SC Dept. of Public Safety annual rotation-list wrecker/storage rate schedule under Reg. 38-600) are local-ordinance or agency rotation-list rates, NOT a statewide cap applicable to all impounds.
Reviewed by Daniel Richardson against South Carolina statutes and regulator schedules.
South Carolina 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. South Carolina has no single statewide dollar cap, so actual fees vary by lot and vehicle.
Max tow fee: No statewide cap; local regulations vary
Storage: Varies by jurisdiction
Notification: Law enforcement notification required for non-consensual tows.
Sources & Legal References
Regulated by South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against South Carolina'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 South Carolina impound bill is too high?
If you were charged above South Carolina'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 →South Carolina Impound FAQs
How much does it cost to get a car out of impound in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, 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 regulations vary.
How much is the daily impound storage fee in South Carolina?
Daily storage in South Carolina runs about $20-$60 per day. State rule: Varies by jurisdiction. 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 South Carolina?
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 South Carolina?
Yes. If you were charged above the legal maximum or the tow broke South Carolina rules, request an itemized receipt, demand a refund of any illegal charges, and file a complaint with the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs. Keep every receipt and photograph the signage.
Does South Carolina regulate towing fees?
SC does not have statewide towing fee caps. Some municipalities may have local regulations. Always get written estimates for consensual tows.
How do I find my towed car in South Carolina?
Call local law enforcement in the area where your car was parked. They maintain tow records and can direct you to the correct facility.