Colorado Towing Bill of Rights Explained

Colorado towing laws exist to protect you. If your car gets towed, you deserve fair treatment and clear communication. Let's break down exactly what Colorado law requires from tow companies and what you can do if something goes wrong.

What Is Colorado's Towing Bill of Rights?

Colorado's towing bill of rights is a set of legal protections for vehicle owners. These rules limit what tow companies can charge. They also require transparency before and after towing happens.

The law applies to both private property tows and roadside breakdowns. Tow operators must follow these rules or face fines. You have the right to know why your car was towed and what it will cost.

How Much Can Tow Companies Charge in Colorado?

Colorado sets maximum tow fees. These limits change based on distance and vehicle type. Here's what you should expect to pay:

• Light-duty tows (cars, sedans): About $75-$150 for the first 10 miles
• Medium-duty tows (SUVs, pickup trucks): About $100-$175 for the first 10 miles
• Heavy-duty tows (commercial vehicles): About $150-$250 for the first 10 miles
• Extra mileage: Usually $3-$5 per mile after initial distance
• After-hours surcharge: May add $25-$50 for night or weekend calls

These are maximum rates. Many companies charge less. Get a quote before agreeing to service. Don't pay more than the legal limit.

Warning: Some companies add hidden fees. Ask about storage, hook-up charges, and fuel surcharges upfront. The total shouldn't exceed the published maximum rate.

What Storage Fees Can Tow Companies Legally Charge?

Once your car reaches the storage lot, daily fees kick in. Colorado limits these charges too. Your car can't be held hostage with unlimited storage costs.

• Daily storage: Maximum $20-$35 per day for most vehicles
• First 24 hours: Often free or reduced rate
• Weekend/holiday rates: May be slightly higher but still capped
• Release requirements: Most facilities accept cash, card, or check

You have the right to retrieve personal items from your vehicle without paying extra. Tow companies can't charge you just to grab your phone charger or documents.

Check towing storage fees by state to understand how Colorado compares to neighboring states.

When Can a Tow Company Legally Tow Your Car?

Not every tow is legal. Colorado law is strict about when companies can remove your vehicle. Understanding these rules protects you from wrongful towing.

Legal reasons for towing:

• Your car is parked illegally (no parking zone, expired meter, fire hydrant)
• You're blocking a driveway or emergency access
• Your vehicle is abandoned on public or private property
• You requested roadside assistance after a breakdown
• Your car is impounded by police for a crime or safety violation
• The property owner authorizes removal of a car on their lot

Illegal reasons for towing:

• Towing without proper signage on private property
• Removing your car before 24 hours on private property (unless emergency)
• No written notice or contact attempt before towing
• Towing without police authorization for private property disputes
• Charging unauthorized fees not listed on parking signs

If your car was towed illegally, you have grounds for a lawsuit. Document everything—location, time, photos of signs, and contact info.

What Notice Must Tow Companies Provide Before Towing?

Transparency is key. Colorado requires tow companies to give proper notice. This protects you from surprise tows.

Notice requirements for private property towing:

1. Property owner or manager must post visible towing signs (minimum 17x22 inches)
2. Signs must include tow company name, phone number, and storage location
3. Maximum tow and storage fees must be clearly displayed
4. Company must attempt to contact vehicle owner before towing (if contact info available)
5. A 24-hour waiting period applies before towing (except emergencies)

Notice requirements for roadside towing:

• Tow operator must identify themselves and explain the service
• You have the right to call your own tow company instead
• Pricing must be disclosed before work starts
• You can request a different tow provider if you prefer

If signage is missing, damaged, or unreadable, the tow may be invalid. Take photos of the parking area. This evidence helps if you dispute the tow.

Your Right to Access and Retrieve Your Vehicle

Your car isn't locked away forever. Colorado law guarantees reasonable access to your vehicle. You have the right to retrieve it promptly.

• Business hours access: Tow facilities must be open at least 8 hours daily
• Evening/weekend access: Facilities must provide phone contact for after-hours retrieval
• Payment options: Multiple payment methods must be accepted (cash, card, check)
• Personal belongings: You can remove items without extra charges
• Release timeline: Your car should be released within 1-2 hours of payment

Don't let a tow company hold your vehicle hostage for unpaid fees beyond the legal maximum. If you're being charged unfairly, contact the Colorado Attorney General's office.

What Happens With Police-Ordered Tows?

Police can order tows for safety and law enforcement reasons. These tows follow slightly different rules than private tows. Understanding the process helps you get your car back faster.

Police tow procedures:

1. Officer documents the reason for towing and issues a report
2. Your vehicle is taken to an authorized impound lot
3. You receive notice of towing location within 24 hours (when possible)
4. Standard tow and storage fees still apply
5. Release requires proof of ownership and valid ID
6. Some police holds require clearance before vehicle release

Police tows are legal even without private property signage. But the same fee limits apply. You shouldn't pay more than the maximum rate.

Learn more about police-ordered tows and your options.

How to Dispute an Illegal or Unfair Tow in Colorado

If you believe your tow was illegal, you have options. Colorado gives you several ways to fight back and recover money.

Steps to dispute a tow:

1. Gather documentation (photos, receipts, witness names, tow report)
2. Write down the exact location, date, time, and tow company name
3. Contact the tow company in writing (email or certified mail) within 30 days
4. Request an itemized invoice showing all charges
5. If the company doesn't respond, file a complaint with Colorado Attorney General
6. You can also sue in small claims court for damages
7. Hire a lawyer if the amount is large enough to justify legal fees

Pro tip: Take photos of the parking area, signage (or lack of), and your car's location. This evidence is gold in a dispute. Save all receipts and correspondence with the tow company.

Private Property Towing Rules in Colorado

Private property owners can authorize towing from their lots. But they can't do it without following rules. Colorado protects drivers even on private property.

What property owners must do:

• Post clear, visible towing signs before removing any car
• Include tow company name, phone number, and storage location on signs
• Display maximum fees prominently
• Wait 24 hours before towing (with rare exceptions)
• Attempt to contact vehicle owner if information is available
• Keep records of all towed vehicles for 90 days
• Provide access to towed vehicles during reasonable hours

If a property owner skips these steps, the tow is illegal. You can sue for damages, including the tow fee, storage costs, and inconvenience.

Read more about private property towing laws and your rights.

What About Your Insurance and Towing Costs?

Your auto insurance might cover towing. Many policies include roadside assistance. Check your policy to see what's covered.

• Standard coverage: Usually covers $50-$100 per tow
• Premium coverage: May cover $200-$500 per tow
• Roadside assistance add-ons: Often include unlimited tows
• AAA membership: Provides towing at competitive rates
• Warranty coverage: Some new car warranties include towing

Call your insurance company before paying a tow company. You might be able to use your coverage. This saves you money and ensures you get fair pricing.

Understand what's covered with towing insurance coverage.

Finding a Legitimate Tow Company in Colorado

Not all tow companies follow the rules. Choosing a legitimate provider protects you from overcharges and poor service. Here's how to find a trustworthy company.

What to look for:

• Valid Colorado towing license and business registration
• Published rates that match state maximums
• Good reviews on Google, Yelp, or Better Business Bureau
• Clear contact information and physical address
• Professional appearance and clean equipment
• Insurance and bonding (proof of liability coverage)
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Red flags to avoid:

• Refusing to provide a quote before service
• Charging significantly above state maximums
• No business license or official documentation
• Aggressive sales tactics or pressure to pay cash
• No written receipt or invoice provided
• Multiple complaints with the Better Business Bureau

Find trusted towing providers near you to avoid scams and unfair pricing.

For more guidance, check out how to choose a reliable tow truck company.

Colorado Towing Bill of Rights Quick Reference Checklist

Use this checklist to verify your rights and document any towing incident:

• ☐ Tow fee is within Colorado maximum limits
• ☐ Company provided clear pricing before service
• ☐ Storage location was disclosed upfront
• ☐ Daily storage fees don't exceed legal maximum
• ☐ Private property had visible towing signs
• ☐ Signs included company name and phone number
• ☐ Signs displayed maximum fees
• ☐ You received written notice of towing (when required)
• ☐ Tow company attempted to contact you
• ☐ Facility is open during reasonable business hours
• ☐ You received itemized invoice with all charges
• ☐ Payment options included card or check (not just cash)

If any item is unchecked, you may have grounds to dispute the tow or the charges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Towing Laws

Can a tow company refuse to show me my car before I pay? No. You have the right to see your vehicle and its condition before releasing payment. Take photos to document any damage.

What if the tow company loses or damages my car? Tow companies are liable for damage caused by negligence. Document everything with photos and file a claim. If they refuse, contact the Colorado Attorney General.

Can I retrieve my car if I don't have the full payment? No. The tow company can legally hold your vehicle until you pay the full amount. But that amount must follow state maximums. Negotiate if charges seem unfair.

Do I need proof of ownership to get my car back? Yes. Bring your driver's license and vehicle registration. Some facilities may accept temporary proof if your documents are in the car.

How long can a tow company hold my vehicle? Colorado doesn't set a specific holding period. But storage fees must be reasonable. After 30-60 days of unpaid storage, the company may have the right to sell your vehicle. Check the storage facility's policies.

Can I sue a tow company for an illegal tow? Yes. You can file in small claims court or hire a lawyer. You may recover the tow fee, storage costs, and additional damages for inconvenience.

What if I disagree with a police tow? Police tows are harder to challenge but still subject to fee limits. Contact the police department to understand why your car was impounded. Then follow dispute procedures if charges are unfair.

Are there special rules for RVs or commercial vehicles? Yes. Heavy-duty towing costs more. RV and motorhome towing has unique requirements. Commercial vehicles may have different fee structures.

Where do I report a tow company that violated my rights? Contact the Colorado Attorney General's office, the Better Business Bureau, or file a complaint with the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.

Can tow companies add fees for items like fuel surcharge or administrative costs? Not beyond the maximum rate. Any additional charges must be included in the total fee. If they exceed state limits, refuse to pay and file a complaint.

Take Action to Protect Your Rights

Colorado's towing bill of rights exists to protect you. Knowing these rules saves money and prevents unfair treatment. If you're ever towed, remember these key points:

• Ask for a quote before agreeing to service
• Request an itemized invoice with all charges
• Verify fees match state maximums
• Document everything with photos and notes
• Don't pay cash without a receipt
• Report violations to the Colorado Attorney General

When you need towing, choose a company that follows the rules. Find towing services near you that respect Colorado law and treat customers fairly.

Prices from providers like AAA, GEICO, Progressive, and State Farm are current as of 2026. We're not affiliated with these companies. Always verify current rates with your provider or local tow operators.