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Chicago has two separate towing systems: city tows that go to City auto pounds, and private-lot “relocation” tows regulated by the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). This hub explains how to tell them apart and links to our full Chicago tow fee guide.
City auto pound tows
When a city department tows a car, fees are set by the Municipal Code of Chicago, storage is charged per day up to a cap, and any tickets in final determination are due too. Our Chicago guide lists the current rates and the steps to get the car back.
Private-lot relocation tows
If a private property owner had your car towed, the tow company must follow ICC rules and maximum rates, and there are rules on when storage can be charged. The Chicago guide explains your rights and what to check on the bill. Our tow-away sign requirements guide covers signage.
Contesting a city tow
You can challenge a City of Chicago tow. The steps are in our Chicago guide. Keep photos, receipts and any paperwork from the pound.
Winter breakdowns
Snow and ice make roadside waits riskier and may mean a car needs to be winched out before it can be towed. Mention snow, a ditch or an icy slope in your request so the provider brings the right equipment.
Asking for a tow or roadside help in Chicago
If you need a tow you are choosing yourself, rather than one ordered by police or a property owner, the price is set by the company you hire, not by a city schedule. Before you agree to anything in Chicago, ask for the total in writing, including mileage, after-hours charges and any fee for dollies or winching, and decide where the car goes. Our tow truck cost guide explains each part of a quote and the tow cost calculator gives a ballpark range. If someone arrives at a breakdown or crash without being called, you don’t have to use them; see how to choose a tow company and avoid towing scams.
When you send a request, include the exact location (cross streets, freeway direction and nearest exit, or garage level), the year, make and model, whether the car rolls and steers, whether it is AWD or electric, and where you want it taken. Those details decide which truck a provider sends and make quotes easier to compare. If your car was towed rather than broken down, you don’t need a new tow: start with the steps above and our impound lot guide.
Not sure what kind of help to ask for? Our towing services pages explain flatbed towing, jump starts, lockouts and more.
Chicago towing guides on TowCars.com
- Chicago tow fees: City auto pound vs private-lot tow costs
- Impound lot guide
- Tow bill checker
- Tow yard storage fee limits
- Drop fees: can you stop a tow?
Frequently asked questions
It is a tow from private property, such as a store or apartment lot. These tows are licensed and rate-capped by the Illinois Commerce Commission.
Fees are set by the Municipal Code. Our Chicago tow fee guide lists the current tow and storage rates with sources.
Yes. Our Chicago guide explains how to challenge a city tow.
No. We pass your quote request to independent providers who serve the area.
Need a tow or roadside help in Chicago? Tell us what happened and where, and we’ll pass your request to independent providers who serve the area.