Utah allows towing in limited situations, and the rules depend on who ordered the tow and why the car was removed.

• Law enforcement tows. Ordered when a vehicle blocks traffic, is abandoned, or is involved in a crash. These follow state impound rules and are logged in the impound database.
• Private property tows. Common at apartments and parking lots. The property owner or manager must authorize the tow and comply with signage and notice requirements.

Key statute: Under Utah Code §72-9-603, vehicles may not be towed from private property unless clear warning signs are posted at every entrance showing the towing company’s name, phone number, and towing conditions. If there is no compliant sign, the tow may be unlawful.

Private-property tows are performed by towing companies at the request of an owner or manager. Law-enforcement tows are directed by officers and appear in Utah’s impound system.

If you do not know who authorized your tow, call local law enforcement first. They can confirm whether it was a police-ordered impound or a private removal. That determines which rules apply and where to begin the retrieval process.

For a private tow to be lawful, Utah requires compliant signage and basic documentation by the tow operator:

Start by calling the local police non-emergency line. Tow companies must report tows within two hours, allowing police to confirm the vehicle’s location.

• Call ahead to the tow yard to confirm hours and accepted payment methods.
• Bring your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
• Expect to pay towing and daily storage before release. Keep all receipts for any later dispute.

Fees must be reasonable and consistent with Utah standards. Many companies file rates with the state. Overcharging or charging for services not provided can support a complaint to the Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Consumer Protection.

• Gather evidence: Photograph the parking area and any missing or unclear signs.
• Request records: Ask the tow company for the police notification report and authorization form.
• File a dispute: Submit a complaint to the Utah Consumer Protection Division and, when appropriate, contact local law enforcement.

Some cities, including Salt Lake City, have local ordinances that further limit predatory towing. Check your city’s municipal code for added protections.

If a vehicle remains unclaimed, a tow operator can begin sale or disposal after a set period (often about 30 days, but this may vary by jurisdiction) and must send a certified notice to the registered owner. Waiting increases storage fees and can risk loss of ownership.

You park overnight at a friend’s apartment complex, not noticing guest passes are required. By morning, your car is gone and a small “Tow Away Zone” sign is half covered by snow. Police confirm it was a private tow and give you the tow yard’s number. At pickup, you see a $350 bill, but the tow company cannot show timely police notification. Under Utah law, that procedural failure may invalidate the tow. You can dispute the charge and request reimbursement for the unauthorized removal.