Towed and Seized Vehicles

There are several reasons why Police seize vehicles: 

• Impaired driving.
• Highway Traffic Act offence.
• The occupant was arrested and cannot care for the vehicle.
• Impeding traffic.
• Parking violations.
• The vehicle may be evidence to a crime.

When a vehicle is seized, police will ensure the vehicle is safe and secure. Usually the vehicle will be towed to a police impound yard close to the area in which it was seized. The police will then make an effort to contact the registered owner of the vehicle. Only the owner is authorized to pick up the vehicle.

When the registered owner is notified of the vehicle seizure they will be required to conduct four steps:

1. Visit the police division where the vehicle is being held.
2. Provide sufficient identification so that the vehicle can be released to the registered owner.
3. The police will provide that person with a release form.
4. Take the release form to the tow yard to claim the vehicle.
   • A vehicle will not be released from the tow yard without a properly authorized release form.
   • When the vehicle is claimed at the tow yard the registered owner will be provided with a bill for towing and storage expenses incurred.
   • The cost of the tow and subsequent storage are the responsibility of the registered owner of the vehicle.

The locations and costs of the Peel Regional Police pound facilities are as follows: