Private-property towing is one of the biggest sources of conflict in Alberta’s parking lots, apartment complexes, and business properties. Every week, hundreds of drivers discover their vehicle missing, only to learn it has been legally — or in some cases, illegally — towed.

At the same time, property owners face constant issues with unauthorized parking, abandoned vehicles, or drivers blocking emergency lanes.

The challenge?
Most people don’t fully understand how private property towing works, what’s legal, and what rights each side has.

This guide breaks it all down in simple language, so both drivers and property owners can avoid unnecessary trouble, expensive fees, and stressful arguments.

What Exactly Is “Private Property Towing”?

Private property towing happens when a vehicle is removed from land that is not a public road — for example:

Shopping center parking lots
Apartment or condo lots
Private driveways
Commercial properties
Reserved business parking
Gated community parking
Private alleys or shared spaces

In Alberta, private property owners do have the right to remove vehicles that are parked without permission — but only if certain rules are followed.

A towing company can not randomly remove cars without the property owner’s request or authorization, and they cannot tow if parking rules were not clearly communicated.

Your Rights as a Driver in Alberta (2025)

Many Alberta residents don’t realize they have strong protections when it comes to towing — especially after the 2025 rule changes designed to stop aggressive or predatory towing.

Here are your core rights:

1. You can refuse any tow you did NOT request.

If a tow truck shows up at:

a breakdown
a parking lot
an accident scene

…you don’t have to say yes.
A driver must give permission, unless police or emergency crews order otherwise.

2. You have the right to choose the towing company.

No tow operator can force you to use them.
No repair shop can pressure you into a specific towing service.

3. You must receive an estimate before your vehicle is towed.

This protects you from unexpected high fees.

4. You have the right to access personal belongings.

Even if your vehicle is stored at a yard, you must be allowed to retrieve personal items (ID, wallet, work gear, medication, etc.).

5. You can always ask questions — and get clear answers.

You can ask:

Where the vehicle is being taken
What the total cost is
Who requested the tow
Whether the tow was authorized
Who you can contact for release

If the tow operator cannot clearly answer you, that’s a red flag.

2025 Alberta Update: Crackdown on Predatory Towing

In 2025, Alberta introduced stronger rules to protect drivers from unwanted or aggressive towing — especially at accident scenes.

Two major changes you should know:

1. Tow trucks can no longer crowd accident scenes to solicit work.

This includes:

Crashes
Breakdowns
Disabled vehicles

Tow operators must wait to be requested — either by the driver or by police/fire/EMS.

2. Tow trucks must keep a clear distance unless authorized.

This was added to stop tow trucks from circling or pressuring drivers into paying high fees right after a stressful crash.

Why these changes matter

For years, drivers reported:

Feeling pressured
Being quoted inflated prices
Having cars taken without clear permission
Not knowing where their car went

These new rules strengthen consumer protection and reduce the possibility of misunderstanding or unfair practices.

When Can a Vehicle Be Towed from Private Property?

For a tow to be legal, two conditions must be met:

1. The property must have proper signage.

Signage must be:

Visible at entrances
Easy to read
Clearly stating that unauthorized vehicles will be towed
Displaying rules, restrictions, or time limits

If there’s no sign, most drivers can argue they were not properly warned.

2. The tow must be requested by the property owner or authorized agent.

This means:

A security officer
Property manager
Building owner
Store owner
Designated parking authority

A tow truck cannot randomly patrol a lot and tow vehicles without permission.

Common Reasons Vehicles Get Towed from Private Property in Alberta

Here are the most frequent examples:

1. Parking without permission

Apartment complexes, condos, and private lots often tow non-residents or unauthorized guests.

2. Blocking fire lanes or emergency access

Even if you’re “just running inside for a minute,” blocking emergency space is grounds for immediate towing.

3. Parking in reserved or numbered stalls

In condos and apartments, each stall is typically assigned. Parking in someone else’s spot can lead to towing.

4. Parking after hours

Some businesses, plazas, and restaurants restrict overnight parking.

5. Abandoned or stored vehicles

Property owners can remove vehicles that appear abandoned or left long-term.

What Property Owners Must Do Before Ordering a Tow

Property owners also have legal responsibilities.
You cannot simply call a tow truck because someone parked in your lot.

1. Post clear signage

No signage = weak legal ground for towing.

2. Create a towing policy

This should outline:

When towing is used
Who can authorize it
What company is allowed to tow
Procedures for disputes

3. Work with a licensed towing company

Reputable towing companies keep:

Written agreements
Incident logs
Authorization forms
Photographic evidence

4. Ensure fairness

Towing is meant to protect property rights — not to trap or punish drivers unfairly.

Is It Legal to Tow Without Warning? (Short Answer: No)

A property owner cannot legally tow a vehicle without:

Clear signage
A proper reason
Authorization
Following provincial guidelines

If your car is towed without any sign or warning, you may have grounds to challenge the tow or request reimbursement.

What to Do If Your Vehicle Was Towed in Alberta

Here’s the smoothest way to resolve a tow:

1. Stay calm — it’s very common.

Hundreds of vehicles are towed every day. The situation is stressful, but manageable.

2. Call the local towing directory or non-emergency police line.

Dispatchers can quickly check where the vehicle was taken.

3. Ask for the exact address of the impound lot

Write down:

Phone number
Address
Hours of operation

4. Bring identification when picking up the vehicle

You will need:

Driver’s licence
Proof of ownership or registration
Insurance

5. Ask for an itemized bill

This ensures you are not paying for unnecessary or inflated services.

Frequently Asked Questions (SEO-Optimized)

Can a tow truck take my car if there’s no sign?

In most cases, no. Lack of signage weakens the tow’s legality.

Can I stop a tow in progress?

If the vehicle’s wheels are still on the ground or not fully secured, you may request the operator to stop. Once secured, the tow company may be allowed to continue.

Do I have to pay the towing fee right away?

You will need to pay to release the vehicle, but you can dispute the charge later if you believe it was unfair.

Can apartment buildings tow tenants?

Yes — if the parking rules are clearly outlined in the rental agreement and proper signage exists.

Expert Suggestions — From a Professional Perspective

For Drivers:

Always look for signage before parking, even if you plan to stay only a few minutes.
Take photos before leaving your car if you’re unsure about rules.
If a tow truck approaches you and you did not call them, politely decline.
Ask for written or printed estimates before somebody touches your vehicle.

Property Owners:

Use clear, well-lit signage at every entry point.
Partner with a reputable towing company — avoid companies that patrol or act aggressively.
Communicate parking rules with tenants and customers.
Document every tow with photos and written authorization.

Everyone:

Being informed reduces conflict. Most towing disputes happen because one side wasn’t aware of their rights. A few minutes of understanding the rules can save hundreds of dollars and hours of stress.

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