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.