Vehicle Storage Lien in California
Your rights as a vehicle owner when your car is towed or stored in California — lien timelines, notice requirements, storage rates, redemption rights, and how to dispute improper charges.
In California, your redemption window is 30 days from storage. After that, the facility may sell your vehicle to recover charges. Contact the storage facility immediately, request an itemized invoice, and verify all charges comply with California law.
California has strong consumer protections for vehicle storage liens. If you receive a lien sale notice, request a hearing immediately. The operator must prove the storage was legal. Owners of vehicles worth less than $4,000 can go through a simplified lien process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a storage facility have to keep my car before a lien sale in California?
30 days. California allows a tow/storage operator to file a lien after holding a vehicle for 30 days (15 days for vehicles over $4,000). The operator must first send notice by certified mail to the registered owner and lienholder.
Does the storage facility have to notify me before selling my car in California?
Yes. California requires the storage facility to mail notice to the last known registered owner and lienholder by certified mail within 48 hours of storing the vehicle (Vehicle Code §22852). Owner has 72 hours to request an initial hearing.
How much does vehicle storage cost per day in California?
$45–$100+/day. California regulates maximum tow and storage rates in most jurisdictions, but rates vary by city and county. Los Angeles, San Francisco, and other cities set their own tow fee schedules. Demand an itemized invoice.
What rights do I have as a vehicle owner in a storage lien in California?
Strong — 30-day notice, hearing right. California vehicle owners have the right to request a post-storage hearing within 10 days of the notice. The hearing is free and can result in release of the vehicle if the storage was improper. Owners may also redeem the vehicle by paying all charges before the auction.
How does the auction process work for storage liens in California?
DMV lien sale. California conducts lien sales through a DMV-regulated process. For vehicles over $4,000, the operator applies to the DMV for authorization to conduct the lien sale. An auction is held with proper public notice.
What should I do if my car was towed and I can't afford to pay in California?
Contact the storage facility immediately and ask for an itemized invoice. Verify all charges are legal under California law. If you cannot afford the total, ask about a payment plan. California has strong consumer protections for vehicle storage liens. If you receive a lien sale notice, request a hearing immediately. The operator must prove the storage was legal. Owners of vehicles worth less than $4,000 can go through a simplified lien process. Contact the California DMV or a legal aid organization if you believe the charges are improper.