How to Recover an Impounded Vehicle in Florida
Storage fees in Florida accumulate daily. The faster you act, the less you pay. Here is exactly what Florida requires and how to get your vehicle back today.
Move fast. Storage fees of $85 first day, then $35–$50/day accrue every day until you recover the vehicle.
Quick Reference
Who Can Impound Your Vehicle
Florida law enforcement, local code enforcement, FDOT, and licensed wrecker operators
Florida Statute §715.07 governs private property towing. §323 covers law enforcement tows. Wrecker operators must be licensed by the county.
Documents Required to Recover
- Florida driver license or government photo ID
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of Florida insurance (PIP minimum)
- Cash, certified check, or credit card
- Authorization letter from owner if recovering for someone else
Fees and Caps
Tow: $125 max for non-consent tow (light vehicle)
Storage: $85 first day, then $35–$50/day
Florida caps initial tow + first-day storage at $125 + $85. Daily storage after first day is negotiated by local ordinance.
Your Right to Contest
Yes — file in county court within 30 days
Florida §715.07(4) allows owner to file a court action contesting the tow. If the tow was wrongful, the tow operator pays damages plus attorney fees.
If You Don't Recover the Vehicle
Auction timeline: 35 days after notice (private property) / shorter for public
Florida fast-tracks abandoned vehicle sales for vehicles worth under $500. Above that, full DHSMV process required.
Florida Standout Rule
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can impound a vehicle in Florida?
Florida law enforcement, local code enforcement, FDOT, and licensed wrecker operators. Florida Statute §715.07 governs private property towing. §323 covers law enforcement tows. Wrecker operators must be licensed by the county.
How fast must I be notified of an impound in Florida?
24 hours to DHSMV via online portal. Tow yard must report within 24 hours via Florida DHSMV. DHSMV provides owner/lienholder info. Owner notified by certified mail.
How much does it cost to recover an impounded vehicle in Florida?
$125 max for non-consent tow (light vehicle) for the tow plus $85 first day, then $35–$50/day for storage. Florida caps initial tow + first-day storage at $125 + $85. Daily storage after first day is negotiated by local ordinance.
What documents do I need to recover an impounded vehicle in Florida?
Florida driver license or government photo ID, Vehicle registration, Proof of Florida insurance (PIP minimum), plus payment for fees. Bring all originals — copies typically not accepted.
Can I contest an impound in Florida?
Yes — file in county court within 30 days. Florida §715.07(4) allows owner to file a court action contesting the tow. If the tow was wrongful, the tow operator pays damages plus attorney fees.
Selling After Recovery?
If you're selling the vehicle after recovery, a Florida bill of sale documents the condition and transfer cleanly.
Generate Bill of SaleSource: Florida DHSMV Wrecker Operator Information. Tow rates and notice rules change frequently — verify with your local agency before paying.