Vehicle Storage Lien in Florida
Your rights as a vehicle owner when your car is towed or stored in Florida — lien timelines, notice requirements, storage rates, redemption rights, and how to dispute improper charges.
In Florida, your redemption window is 35 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 Florida law.
Florida's abandoned vehicle process is relatively quick. The 35-day clock starts on arrival, not from when the owner is notified. If you receive a notice, act immediately — contact the facility, verify the charges, and reclaim your vehicle as fast as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a storage facility have to keep my car before a lien sale in Florida?
35 days. Florida allows a storage facility to apply for a certificate of destruction or title for an abandoned vehicle after 35 days (Florida Statute §713.78). The facility must notify the owner within 7 business days of the vehicle arriving.
Does the storage facility have to notify me before selling my car in Florida?
Yes. Florida requires notice to the registered owner and lienholder within 7 business days of receiving the vehicle (§713.78). Notice must be sent by certified mail. Failure to notify properly voids the facility's right to proceed.
How much does vehicle storage cost per day in Florida?
$25–$80/day. Florida does not cap statewide storage rates but municipal ordinances often set limits. Miami and other large cities have fee schedules. Request an itemized invoice and challenge any amounts over the local schedule.
What rights do I have as a vehicle owner in a storage lien in Florida?
Moderate — 35-day window. Florida vehicle owners may reclaim the vehicle before the certificate of title is issued by paying all charges. Once the DHSMV issues the new title to the facility, the original owner loses all rights. Florida does not provide an administrative hearing for storage lien disputes.
How does the auction process work for storage liens in Florida?
Florida DHSMV lien sale. Florida conducts lien sales through the Florida DHSMV. The facility applies for a certificate of title after the statutory period. Public notice is required before any sale.
What should I do if my car was towed and I can't afford to pay in Florida?
Contact the storage facility immediately and ask for an itemized invoice. Verify all charges are legal under Florida law. If you cannot afford the total, ask about a payment plan. Florida's abandoned vehicle process is relatively quick. The 35-day clock starts on arrival, not from when the owner is notified. If you receive a notice, act immediately — contact the facility, verify the charges, and reclaim your vehicle as fast as possible. Contact the Florida DHSMV or a legal aid organization if you believe the charges are improper.