After a Phoenix impound under ARS 28-3511, you have a defined set of rights and a short window to use them. The biggest one is the post storage hearing.

The post storage hearing (ARS 28-3514)

  • Request it within 10 days of the impound notice (ARS 28-3514 E).
  • The hearing is held within 5 business days of the agency receiving your request (ARS 28-3514 F).
  • Phoenix hearings are typically conducted by phone during business hours.
  • At the hearing you can challenge whether the impound was lawful and whether the agency followed the right steps.

Your belongings

  • The yard cannot hold your personal property as security for charges.
  • You may retrieve your belongings from the yard even if you cannot pay the release. Confirm yard hours before you go.

The fees and the timeline

  • The state admin fee is $150 paid to the impounding police department (ARS 28-3513 B).
  • Storage accrues at $25 per day during the 20 day hold (ARS 28-3511).
  • After 20 days, the yard can move to lien and sale.

If you think the tow was unlawful

  • ARS 28-4836 sets the framework for unlawful non consent tows.
  • A failure to notify police within one hour forfeits all tow and storage charges and is a class 1 misdemeanor.
  • See was my car towed illegally.

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

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to request the hearing?

10 days from the date of the impound notice under ARS 28-3514 E. The hearing is then held within 5 business days of the agency receiving your request.

Can I get my stuff out without paying the release?

You can usually retrieve your personal belongings from the yard without paying the release fee. Yard hours and policies vary. Call the assigned yard before you go.

Does the hearing cost anything?

The statute does not set a filing fee for the post storage hearing itself. Confirm any administrative cost with the hearing agency when you file.

What happens if I lose the hearing?

You still owe the storage that has accrued and the tow charge. The $150 state admin fee is also due.

Can I file a complaint against the tower?

Yes. Complaints against the tower go to the Arizona Department of Public Safety or the city where the tow happened. Keep the impound notice and the receipt.