Impounded Vehicles

Find an Impounded Vehicle

Please Note: We are currently experiencing technical difficulties and are only accepting CASH payments for impound releases. Ticket and permit payments may be made online but not processed at our facility. Sorry for the inconvenience.

The following documentation is required to release an impounded vehicle to a valid licensed driver:*

• Current Vehicle Registration
• Valid Driver's License

The following documentation is required to tow an impounded vehicle off the lot:*

• Vehicle Title
• State Issued ID

*Owners who present a vehicle title without providing a current vehicle registration will be required to have the vehicle towed from the impound lot.

*Owners who present a state issued ID must have a licensed driver to drive the vehicle out of the impound lot or the vehicle must be towed.

Applicable Fees

• Towing fee: $125*
• Administrative fee: $30 (only applicable if certified notification has been sent)
• Storage fee: $18 (only applicable if certified notification has been sent)
• Any outstanding parking tickets
• Any other associated towing fee

*This applies to vehicles less than 7,000 pounds (most vehicles). Additional fees will be charged for vehicles weighing more than 7,000 pounds.

*Parking Services accepts cash, credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex and Discover), and money orders payable to Columbus City Treasurer. Please note: We do not accept personal checks for impound related fees unless from an approved agency.

Vehicle Owners

Vehicles may be released to the vehicle owner or a relative with the same last name. Owners who wish to authorize a person (other than a relative) to obtain a vehicle release must complete a Notarized Authorization of Release form(PDF, 421KB) and provide proof of ownership documentation.

Vehicle Repossessions

Banks and Lienholders must complete a Hold Harmless Letter(PDF, 513KB) listing the company or authorized person who can obtain a vehicle release. Company agents, employees or authorized individuals must present a driver’s license and proof of employment from their employer to obtain a vehicle release.

Insurance Companies / Salvage Companies

Vehicle owners must complete a Notarized Authorization of Release form(PDF, 421KB) authorizing their insurance company to obtain a vehicle release. Proof of ownership must be presented by the insurance company or agent at the time of vehicle release. Salvage or towing companies must have a notarized letter of authorization to pick up a vehicle on behalf of an insurance company. Insurance agents, salvage or towing companies must show proof of employment from their employer to obtain a vehicle release.

Payment of all impoundment fees and all current and outstanding parking tickets is required before a vehicle release is authorized. Payment can be made with cash or credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex and Discover).