Where did my car get towed in Denver?

Step 1: the city's Tow Tracker

Denver's Tow Tracker searches by license plate or VIN for cars taken to the city's impound lot at 5160 York Street. Police-ordered tows end up there, and so do cars the city booted for unpaid tickets and then towed. If your car shows up, it is at the city lot.

Step 2: if the city doesn't have it

A private company probably towed it from a parking lot or garage, or from an apartment complex. Go back to where you parked and look for the tow sign. It should name the company and give a phone number. Colorado law requires these companies to report the tow to the state and notify the owner within 10 days, but you don't have to wait for the letter.

Still nothing? Call the Denver police non-emergency line at (720) 913-2000. If no one towed it, it may have been stolen, and you will want a report.

Getting it out of the city lot

Bring proof you own the car (current registration or the title), a photo ID with a matching name and a way to pay. The lot takes cash and cards. It also takes money orders, but not personal checks. To drive it out, you also need insurance and a license, and the car must be roadworthy. Call (720) 865-0470 to confirm hours before you go: the city lists slightly different hours in two places.

Getting it back from a private company

The PUC caps what a company may charge for a tow you didn't ask for, plus mileage and storage. Within 30 days of the notice you can get the car or your things back for the lesser of 15% of the fees owed or $60, if you sign a form that you still owe the rest. The company has to take cash and major credit cards. All your rights after a private tow.