If your vehicle was towed as a stored, impounded, or recovered stolen vehicle, you may obtain a vehicle release form from the Salinas Police Department. The registered/legal owner must be present to obtain a vehicle release. Any person acting on behalf of the owner must provide a power of attorney or a notarized letter authorizing the person to take possession of the vehicle on the owner’s behalf. The letter must include the vehicle information.
The vehicle must have current registration or have a temporary operating permit. The owner must show proof of insurance and a valid driver’s license. Should the registered/legal owner not have a driver’s license, you must bring a licensed driver with you.
Should you have further questions please contact the Records Department at (831) 758-7090 option 2 for Police Services Group.
Our lobby hours are Monday thru Friday, 8 am to 5 pm. Weekends and holidays are 8 am to 4:30 pm.
WHAT IF MY VEHICLE WAS IMPOUNDED?
If a towed vehicle is subject to a 30-day impound due to the driver being unlicensed or having a suspended license, the vehicle may be released prior to the 30th day, if the driver of the vehicle at the time of impound obtains a valid driver’s license from DMV. If the driver is unable to obtain a driver’s license, you may request an administrative review. You may stop by the Police Department to complete and submit your form. The registered owner must be present. It must be completed in English. Please allow 5-7 days for review.
WHO PAYS FOR THE TOWING AND STORAGE FEES?
The registered owner is responsible for all towing, storage, lien, and release fees. All fees are due at time of service. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Apple/Android pay (3% fee), money orders & personal check payable to the City of Salinas. Please contact the towing company for their fees.
City Fees are as follows:
Stored Vehicle: $123.50 (check or money order – NO CASH) / $128.21 (credit or debit card)
Impounded Vehicle Release Fee: $233.55 (check or money order – NO CASH) / $240.51 (credit or debit card)
WHAT IF I NO LONGER OWN THE VEHICLE?
If you received a “Notice of Stored Vehicle” but no longer own the vehicle, you must file a Release of Liability form with the DMV.
