How Much Are Impound Fees in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin caps impound charges by state law: up to $150 to release plus up to $25/day storage. Retrieve it fast - fees add up every day.
Reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Wisconsin statutes and regulator schedules.
Wisconsin Impound Cost by Days Held (2026)
| Time in impound | Legal maximum |
|---|---|
| 1 day | $175 |
| 3 days | $225 |
| 7 days | $325 |
| 14 days | $500 |
These are the Wisconsin statutory maximums for a standard passenger car (outdoor storage); indoor storage, heavier vehicles, or local ordinances can run higher. Outdoor storage $25/day; indoor $35/day. Tow $150 base (+ up to $150 special equipment, $3/mi over 20 mi); a municipal service fee up to $35 may apply (Trans 319.03).
Max tow fee: $150 statewide cap (Trans 319.03; +up to $150 special equipment and $3/mi over 20mi; municipal service fee up to $35)
Storage: $25/day outdoor, $35/day indoor (statewide, Trans 319.03)
Notification: Towing service must notify a local law enforcement agency BEFORE removing a non-consensual tow, providing company name/phone, vehicle make, model, VIN, plate, and destination, by phone, voicemail, email, or other electronic method. (Wis. Stat. 349.13(3m); Wis. Admin. Code Trans 319.05)
Sources & Legal References
- Wis. Stat. 349.13 (statutory basis, 2013 Wis. Act 76)
docs.legis.wisconsin.gov
Regulated by Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Wisconsin'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 Wisconsin impound bill is too high?
If you were charged above Wisconsin'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 →Wisconsin Impound FAQs
How much does it cost to get a car out of impound in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, expect an initial tow of about $150 to release (the Wisconsin cap) plus daily storage of $25 per day (the Wisconsin statutory cap for outdoor storage), plus any administrative/release fees. The longer the car sits, the more you pay - so retrieve it quickly. $150 statewide cap (Trans 319.03; +up to $150 special equipment and $3/mi over 20mi; municipal service fee up to $35).
How much is the daily impound storage fee in Wisconsin?
Daily storage in Wisconsin runs $25 per day (the Wisconsin statutory cap for outdoor storage). State rule: $25/day outdoor, $35/day indoor (statewide, Trans 319.03). 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 Wisconsin?
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 Wisconsin?
Yes. If you were charged above the legal maximum or the tow broke Wisconsin rules, request an itemized receipt, demand a refund of any illegal charges, and file a complaint with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. Keep every receipt and photograph the signage.
Are towing rates regulated in Wisconsin?
Yes. Wisconsin sets statewide caps under Wis. Admin. Code Trans 319.03: a $150 base tow fee (plus up to $150 for special equipment and $3/mile beyond 20 miles) and storage of $25/day outdoors or $35/day indoors. Cities such as Milwaukee and Madison may add their own rules, and a municipal service fee up to $35 may apply.
What are the winter parking rules in Wisconsin?
Many WI cities have alternate-side parking rules and snow emergency declarations that can result in towing. Monitor your city website and local news during winter months.