Getting your vehicle towed or impounded can be a frustrating, time-consuming, and expensive ordeal— especially if you're not familiar with the rules. In Illinois, both state laws and local ordinances govern how and when a vehicle can be legally towed or held in an impound lot. Knowing your rights and the procedures involved can make a major difference if you ever find yourself in this situation.
In Illinois, vehicles can be towed from public roads if they are considered abandoned, obstructive, or involved in a criminal offense. For instance, a car left unattended on a tollway or expressway for two or more hours can be removed. In urban areas, ten hours is usually the cutoff, while rural areas allow up to 24 hours. A vehicle may also be towed if it’s creating a hazard, has been in a crash, or is visibly inoperable. Law enforcement may impound vehicles for reasons like DUI, driving with a suspended license, or drug-related arrests. In these cases, the vehicle is often held until a hearing determines what happens next. On private property, towing is more tightly regulated. Unless the property clearly displays signage warning about towing, or in some counties provides a written warning before the tow, the act may be unlawful.
This is meant to protect consumers from predatory practices, especially in more densely populated areas like Cook and DuPage counties. Illinois requires all tow operators to be licensed through the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). Tow companies must disclose their business information, the destination of the vehicle, and a full cost estimate before beginning the tow. After the tow, they must provide a final invoice and accept major credit cards or cash—no sketchy demands for cash only. These rules are in place to protect vehicle owners from surprise fees and to ensure transparency. Tow operators who fail to follow these regulations may forfeit their right to collect fees or enforce a lien against your car.
Oh, you’ll pay the price to get your vehicle back! Fees can stack up quickly. Cities and counties are allowed to impose administrative impound fees in addition to standard towing and storage costs. In places like Chicago, you might be charged $150 to $250 for the tow and $25 to $50 per day in storage. A hearing must be offered within 45 days, and vehicles unclaimed 35 days after a decision can be sold as abandoned. You have the right to request a hearing if you believe the tow or impound was unjustified. Vehicles must be released promptly upon payment, typically within 30 minutes during business hours or two hours after hours.
If this all sounds overwhelming, you're not alone. This is where OUTPOUND.com can step in! Whether you're trying to locate your vehicle, fight an unjust tow, or just understand your next steps, OutPOUND has simplified the process and connects you with the resources you need fast.
If your vehicle has been towed and impounded in Illinois, and you’re facing mounting fees, legal confusion, or just want to be done with the hassle, OutPOUND is your best next step. Whether you're looking to recover your car, dispute an unfair impound, or even sell a towed or abandoned vehicle outright, We have streamlined the entire process. We specialize in helping Illinois vehicle owners navigate impound laws, avoid unnecessary costs, and make smart, fast decisions, whether that means getting your car back or cashing out quickly. Don’t let your situation get worse while your fees pile up! Contact us today and take control of the outcome.
