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Towing Laws in Michigan

Max tow: No statewide cap
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Reviewed by Daniel Richardson

Know your rights: towing regulations, maximum fees, and consumer protections in Michigan (MI).

Max Tow Fee

No statewide cap; local regulations may apply

Max Storage Fee

No statewide daily-rate cap; MCL 257.252i caps total collectible storage at the least of the contracted rate, the facility's rate, or $1,000, but only for abandoned-vehicle disposition tows of individually-owned, non-commercial vehicles

Signage Required

Yes

Police Notification

Required

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Key Towing Laws in Michigan

MCL 257.252a

Michigan vehicle code sections governing towing operations and impoundment.

Detroit Specific Ordinances

City of Detroit has specific towing regulations and an auto pound system.

Vehicle Release Timeline

Tow companies must allow vehicle retrieval during business hours with proper documentation.

Abandoned Vehicle Process

Michigan has a defined abandoned vehicle process with specific notification and auction timelines.

Notification & Signage Requirements

Police Notification

Towing agency must notify a local police agency by phone or other means before removing the vehicle from private property; police must log it in the statewide network within 24 hours. (MCL 257.252a)

Signage Requirements

Except at one- or two-family homes or when the driver was told in person, the property owner must post a tow-away notice at each vehicle entrance with the tow company's name and phone number.

Your Rights in Michigan

  • Right to be notified of vehicle location
  • Right to inspect the vehicle during regular business hours where it is held (MCL 257.252a)
  • Right to personal property access
  • Right to itemized receipt
  • Right to file complaints with Attorney General

How to File a Complaint in Michigan

Complaint Agency

If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:

Michigan Attorney General Consumer Protection Division

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Steps to File a Complaint:

  1. Document everything: take photos of signage, your parking location, vehicle condition, and all receipts.
  2. Note the date, time, tow company name, driver name, and truck number if available.
  3. To file a formal complaint, contact the Michigan Attorney General Consumer Protection Division.
  4. 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.

Regulated by Michigan Attorney General Consumer Protection Division.

Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Michigan's official state statutes and regulator schedules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Michigan cap towing fees?
Michigan does not have statewide towing fee caps. Some municipalities may have local regulations. Always get written estimates for consensual towing services.
How do I find my towed car in Detroit?
Contact the Detroit Police Department to find out which tow company has your vehicle. Detroit has a centralized auto pound system. Bring ID, registration, and payment.
What happens if I cant afford to get my car out of impound in Michigan?
Storage fees accumulate daily, so act as quickly as possible. Some jurisdictions offer payment plans. Contact the tow company to discuss options. You may also qualify for fee waivers in hardship situations in some areas.

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