Under Phoenix City Code 36-6, a tower cannot hold the vehicle as security for charges. The owner can usually retrieve personal property from the yard. State law backs that up for police impounds.

What the tower cannot do

  • Hold the vehicle as security for charges under Phoenix City Code 36-6.
  • Require security (a deposit, a key, ID held against the vehicle) as a condition of release.
  • Refuse to let you collect personal items that belong to you.

What you can usually take

  • Car seats, child seats, and booster seats.
  • Eyeglasses, medications, and personal papers.
  • Tools that belong to you (not the vehicle’s installed parts).
  • Clothing and personal items in the trunk or cabin.

What requires the release

  • The vehicle itself, including installed parts (radio, wheels, battery).
  • Anything attached to the car and not loose personal property.

Police impound (ARS 28-3511)

  • The same logic applies: the yard cannot hold your belongings hostage.
  • You can usually arrange to retrieve personal items while paying the storage that has accrued.
  • Yard hours and policies vary. Call the assigned yard before you go.

If a yard refuses

  • Ask for the specific statute or city code they are relying on.
  • File a complaint with the city (for non consent tows) or with the police department (for police impounds).
  • Document the refusal in writing. ARS 28-4836 also applies to non consent tows; failure to follow the rules forfeits all charges.

For the impound release path, see our Phoenix impound guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can the yard hold my car seat hostage?

No. Under Phoenix City Code 36-6 a tower cannot hold the vehicle as security for charges. Personal items including car seats are usually retrievable without paying the release.

Do I have to pay storage to get my stuff back?

Most yards will let you collect personal items without paying the storage and tow. Call ahead to confirm yard hours and any paperwork they want.

What if the yard refuses to release my personal items?

Ask for the specific authority in writing. File a complaint with the city or police department. ARS 28-4836 also applies; failure to follow its rules forfeits all tow and storage charges.

Does the tower have to accept cash?

City Code 36-6 allows the yard to request ID for billing. It does not let the yard require a deposit as a condition of release.

What if my tools were stolen from the vehicle before pickup?

That is a separate issue. File a police report. The yard’s liability for contents is generally limited; check the release paperwork you signed.