Calgary Towing Resources

Car Towed in Calgary? Finding It and Getting It Moved

Came back to an empty parking spot in Calgary? General steps to find a towed vehicle, and how Dave's Towing can move it once it's released. 403-272-3944.

Car Towed in Calgary? Finding It and Getting It Moved - Dave's Towing Calgary

Few things are as stressful as walking back to where you parked and finding an empty space. Before you assume the worst, there's a good chance your vehicle was towed, either from private property or because of a parking or traffic issue. This guide shares general steps Calgary drivers can take to find out where the vehicle went, and how Dave’s Towing can help if it needs to be moved once it's released. Every situation is different, so always confirm the details with whoever is holding your vehicle.

Step 1: Check Whether It Was Towed or Stolen

Look around for signs. Many private lots, condo buildings and businesses post signs at the entrances that name the company that tows for them and give a phone number. Snap a photo of any sign you see, since it is often the fastest way to find your vehicle.

If there's no sign and no obvious reason the car would have been towed, you can contact the police non-emergency line to ask whether the vehicle has been reported as towed or to report it stolen. If you are in danger or see a crime in progress, call 911.

Step 2: Consider City or Police Tows

Vehicles can also be towed for reasons like street parking restrictions, snow route parking bans, or after a collision or police stop. For questions about city parking and tow programs, the City of Calgary's website or 311 is a good place to start. For vehicles towed after a police matter, the police non-emergency line can point you in the right direction.

Rules and processes can change, so rely on the City, the police or the company holding your vehicle for current information rather than anything you read secondhand, including this article.

Step 3: Call the Lot Before You Go

Once you know where the vehicle is, call ahead. Ask about:

  • Their hours, and whether they release vehicles evenings or weekends.
  • What identification and documents they need to see, such as your driver's licence, registration and proof of insurance.
  • Whether any release paperwork is needed from another agency first.
  • What forms of payment they accept.
  • Whether someone else can pick up the vehicle for you, and what they would need to bring.

Having these answers before you show up can save you a wasted trip across the city.

Step 4: Inspect the Vehicle at Pickup

Before you drive away, walk around the vehicle and take photos. If you notice new damage, raise it with the lot right away and follow their process. Check under the vehicle for leaks and look at the tires, especially if it was towed in winter or from a tight spot.

If you have questions about the tow itself or the charges, ask the company holding the vehicle to explain them, and keep any receipts and paperwork they give you.

When the Vehicle Can't Be Driven Out

Sometimes a vehicle that ends up in a lot can't simply be driven home. It may have been towed after a collision, the battery may have died while it sat in the cold, or it may not be safe to drive. That's where Dave’s Towing comes in.

Once the vehicle has been released to you, we can pick it up and take it to your home, a body shop or your mechanic. For damaged vehicles, our accident towing service and flatbed towing keep the vehicle secure on the deck. If it's just a dead battery or a flat tire, our roadside assistance team may be able to get you going on the spot.

Tips to Avoid Being Towed Again

  • Read parking signs carefully, including time limits and permit-only hours.
  • Watch for snow route parking bans during and after Calgary snowstorms.
  • At condos and apartments, check visitor parking rules with the building.
  • Don't park blocking driveways, lanes, fire hydrants or loading zones.
  • In busy areas like the Beltline, Kensington and downtown, double-check the signs before you leave the car.

Need Your Vehicle Moved? Call Dave’s Towing

If your vehicle has been released and needs a tow to your home or shop, Dave’s Towing is here 24/7 across Calgary and the surrounding area. Call 403-272-3944 with the lot's location, your vehicle details and where it needs to go, or reach us through our contact page.

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