Key Towing Laws in Indiana
IC 9-22-1 - Towing Regulations
Indiana code governing vehicle towing, storage, and impoundment procedures.
Private Property Authorization
Property owners must authorize non-consensual tows in writing.
Notification Requirements
Law enforcement must be notified of all non-consensual tows.
Indianapolis Ordinances
Indianapolis has specific towing ordinances with additional consumer protections.
Notification & Signage Requirements
Police Notification
For tows from commercial private property, the towing company must notify the local law enforcement agency within two hours if that agency requires notice.
Signage Requirements
A conspicuous, clearly visible tow-away zone sign posted more than 5 and less than 7 feet above the ground on commercial private property. Abandoned-vehicle removals are exempt, and local ordinances may set different rules.
Your Rights in Indiana
- Right to be notified of vehicle location
- Right to retrieve personal belongings
- Right to written receipt
- Right to choose destination for consensual tows
- Right to file consumer protection complaints
How to File a Complaint in Indiana
Complaint Agency
If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:
Indiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Division
Visit WebsiteSteps to File a Complaint:
- Document everything: take photos of signage, your parking location, vehicle condition, and all receipts.
- Note the date, time, tow company name, driver name, and truck number if available.
- To file a formal complaint, contact the Indiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Division.
- Consider filing in small claims court if you believe you are owed money for an illegal or improper tow.
Official Sources & Legal References
The fees and rules on this page are drawn from these primary sources - official statutes, administrative codes, and state regulator schedules. We link them so you can verify every figure yourself.
- IC 9-22-1-4 (Abandoned Vehicles - storage cost limit $2,000/$2,500)
codes.findlaw.com
- IC 24-14-4-2 (tow-away zone signage)
codes.findlaw.com
Regulated by Indiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Division.
Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Indiana's official state statutes and regulator schedules.
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