Phoenix impound costs fall in two distinct tracks. The track you are in depends on who ordered the tow. Confirm current yard rates before paying; this guide covers the published caps, not the operator’s posted tow charge.

Track 1: Police impound under ARS 28-3511

  • $150 state admin fee paid to Phoenix PD under ARS 28-3513 B.
  • $25 per day storage under ARS 28-3511.
  • 20 day mandatory hold. The 30 day nickname refers to the same 20 day hold.
  • Phoenix PD Vehicle Impound Unit, 100 W. Washington St., (602) 495-2096. Business hours roughly 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Track 2: Private property (non consent) tow under Phoenix City Code 36-6

  • $105 maximum tow if the vehicle reached storage.
  • $12 per day storage.
  • $20 maximum for on site release before the vehicle leaves the spot.
  • $40 maximum for release mid tow.

What you actually pay

  • Add up tow + storage for the days held.
  • On a police impound, add the $150 state admin fee paid to Phoenix PD separately.
  • On a non consent tow, you pay only the yard. The city is not in the middle.

How long does Phoenix hold the car?

  • 20 days minimum on a police impound under ARS 28-3511.
  • A non consent tow has no statutory hold. The yard can release to the owner as soon as fees are paid (unless police are holding the car for evidence).

What if I cannot pay today?

  • On a police impound, storage accrues at $25 per day during the 20 day hold.
  • On a non consent tow, storage accrues at $12 per day.
  • After 20 days on a police impound, the yard moves to lien or sale.

For the full release path and the yard location, see our Phoenix impound guide.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to get a car out of impound in Phoenix?

Two tracks. Police impound: $150 admin fee plus $25 per day storage. Private property (non consent) tow under City Code 36-6: $105 tow (if vehicle reached storage) plus $12 per day, with lower on site and mid tow caps.

Does Phoenix PD take credit cards?

Confirm directly with the Vehicle Impound Unit at (602) 495-2096. The unit accepts cash, cashier’s check, or money order; other payment methods may vary.

Can I pay the tow and storage in installments?

That depends on the yard. Some yards accept partial payments; most want the full balance before release. There is no statute requiring installments.

What if I was wrongfully towed?

ARS 28-4836 may forfeit all charges if the tower did not follow the law. File a complaint with the city. For a police impound, request a post storage hearing under ARS 28-3514 within 10 days of the notice.

Is there an after hours release fee?

After hours fees on a Phoenix impound were not confirmed in our research. Confirm with the yard before pickup.