Was my car towed?
Search the city's official tow inventory by license plate. If it's here, you'll see exactly which lot has it and who to call.
Prefer to browse? See all recent tows in the Explorer. Source: Towed Vehicles — Chicago Data Portal.
Towed in Chicago — what to know
- How do I find out if my car was towed in Chicago?
- Search the city's official towed-vehicle inventory by license plate — it lists every vehicle the City of Chicago towed or relocated in the last 90 days, updated multiple times a day. If your car appears, the record shows which impound lot has it and the lot's phone number. You can also call the city's tow line at 312-744-4444.
- My car isn't in the tow inventory. Was it stolen?
- Not necessarily. The inventory covers city tows from the last 90 days and can lag a few hours behind a fresh tow. Check again shortly, and check whether your car was relocated for street cleaning or a snow route (those appear here too). If it's still missing, call 311 first — then the police non-emergency line to report a theft.
- How much does it cost to get a towed car back in Chicago?
- Expect a towing fee (typically $150–$250 depending on vehicle size) plus storage fees that accrue daily, and any outstanding tickets may need to be settled. Exact amounts are set by the city and the impound lot — call the lot listed in your tow record to confirm before you go.
- Where are Chicago's auto impound lots?
- The city operates several pounds, including Lower Wacker Drive (Central), 10301 S. Doty Avenue, and 701 N. Sacramento Boulevard. Your tow record names the exact lot holding your vehicle — check it before traveling, since vehicles are not all taken to the nearest pound.