Can Police Tow Your Car from Private Property Ohio?
The answer is not a straightforward yes or no. In Ohio, the rules and regulations regarding police towing from private property are complex and depend on various factors. In this article, we will explore the circumstances under which a police officer can tow a vehicle from private property, the procedures they must follow, and the potential consequences for the vehicle’s owner.
Private Property vs. Public Property
Before delving into the specifics of police towing, it is essential to understand the difference between private and public property. Private property is defined as land or buildings that are owned or leased by an individual or private entity, whereas public property is owned or controlled by the government.
When Can Police Tow Your Car from Private Property?
In Ohio, police officers can only tow a vehicle from private property in certain circumstances, which are outlined in the Ohio Revised Code (ORC). Specifically, officers can tow a vehicle:
When the owner has abandoned the vehicle: If the vehicle has been left on private property without the owner’s consent, and it has been abandoned for more than 72 hours, a police officer can tow the vehicle to a storage facility or impound lot.
When the owner has failed to remove it: If a vehicle has been parked on private property without permission and the owner has been notified to remove it, but fails to do so, a police officer can tow the vehicle.
When there is a court order or warrant: In cases where a court has issued an order or warrant for a vehicle’s seizure, police officers can tow the vehicle from private property.
- When it is needed for investigation or evidence: In some cases, a police officer may need to tow a vehicle from private property as part of an investigation or to collect evidence.
Procedure for Towing from Private Property
When a police officer is authorized to tow a vehicle from private property, they must follow a specific procedure:
The officer must make a determination: The officer must first determine that the vehicle is abandoned, parked without permission, or required for an investigation or evidence.
The officer must notify the owner: Before towing the vehicle, the officer must notify the owner or post a written notice stating the reasons for the tow and providing information on how to retrieve the vehicle.
The officer must contact a towing service: The officer must contact a licensed towing service to tow the vehicle to a storage facility or impound lot.
- The officer must complete a report: The officer must complete a written report detailing the circumstances of the tow and the disposition of the vehicle.
Consequences for the Vehicle’s Owner
If your vehicle is towed from private property by a police officer, there may be consequences for you as the owner. These can include:
Towing and storage fees: You will be responsible for paying towing and storage fees, which can range from $20 to $50 per day.
Impound fees: You may be charged an impound fee, which can range from $10 to $25 per day.
Trespassing fines: If you are notified to remove your vehicle from private property but fail to do so, you may be issued a fine for trespassing.
- Fines and penalties for non-compliance: If you fail to comply with notices or requests from the police or a towing service, you may be subject to fines and penalties.
Table: Estimated Towing and Storage Fees in Ohio
| Type of Tow | Towing Fee | Storage Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Flatbed tow | $50-$100 | $20-$50 per day |
| Wheel-lift tow | $50-$100 | $20-$50 per day |
| Motorcycle tow | $30-$70 | $15-$30 per day |
Conclusion
In Ohio, police officers have the authority to tow a vehicle from private property under specific circumstances, including when the vehicle has been abandoned, parked without permission, or is needed for investigation or evidence. However, they must follow a set procedure and notify the owner before towing the vehicle. As a vehicle owner, it is essential to be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding police towing to avoid fines and penalties. If your vehicle is towed from private property, be prepared to pay towing and storage fees, impound fees, and other charges.
