can you have someone car towed

[Jasmine]

Yes, you can have someone's car towed, but only under specific, legally authorized circumstances. The most common legal grounds are if the vehicle is parked on your private property without permission (like your driveway) or is blocking your access. For public streets, you generally need to contact local law enforcement or the city's parking enforcement authority, as they have the power to remove vehicles that are illegally parked, abandoned, or pose a hazard. Attempting to tow a car from a public space yourself can lead to serious legal trouble, including charges of theft or property damage.

The process typically involves contacting a towing company, but they will require proof of your authority, such as being the verified property owner. For condos or apartments, the property manager or homeowners' association (HOA) usually handles violations based on established rules. It’s a serious action, as the car's owner will be responsible for all towing and storage fees, which can accumulate quickly.

Common Legal Reasons for Towing	Required Action/Contact	Potential Consequences for Wrongful Towing
Private Property Violation (e.g., your driveway)	Contact a private towing company directly.	Lawsuit for conversion (theft) and damages.
Blocking a Fire Hydrant	Call local police non-emergency line.	Significant fines for the vehicle owner.
Expired Registration/Abandoned Vehicle	Report to city parking enforcement.	Vehicle may be impounded and eventually sold.
Violating HOA/APARTMENT Rules	Notify property management or HOA.	Owner liable for fees; possible lien on vehicle.
Obstructing a Designated Accessible Spot	Law enforcement must be contacted.	Federal and state fines for the violator.

Before taking action, especially in borderline situations, it's often wise to try less confrontational methods first, like leaving a polite note or checking with neighbors, to avoid unnecessary conflict. The key is ensuring you are unequivocally within your legal rights.

[ODaniel]

If it's on my property, absolutely. I had a neighbor who kept using my driveway for his guests. I called a local tow company, but they asked for proof I owned the house. Once I showed them my ID and a utility bill, they came right out. It feels harsh, but you have a right to your own space. Just make sure the "No Parking" signs are clear. For a street-parked car, you gotta call the city, not a private company.

[LiamDella]

It’s not a simple yes or no; it's about jurisdiction. On your own private land, you are generally the authority. On a public street, the city or police are the authority. My advice is to never take matters into your own hands on public property. A wrongful tow can result in you being sued for the cost of retrieving the car, plus other damages. Always verify local ordinances first.

[StElijah]

Look, I get the frustration. But before you make that call, think it through. Is this a one-time mistake by a visitor, or a persistent problem? Maybe leave a calm note first. If it's a real emergency, like your car is blocked in and you need to get to work, then yes, towing is a valid last resort. But starting with a little understanding can often solve the problem without creating bad blood with your neighbors.

[IkerDella]

From a legal standpoint, the right to tow stems from trespass laws for private property. The vehicle is considered trespassing chattel. You must ensure the tow is conducted lawfully, meaning using a licensed company and following local notice requirements, such as posting visible signage. Improper procedure can invalidate the tow and make you liable. The burden of proof is on you, the property owner, to demonstrate the violation. It's a powerful tool, but one that must be used precisely.