ARS 9-499.05 controls what a sign must say for a non consent tow off an Arizona parking lot. It does not set a sign size. Phoenix adds its own fee cap under City Code 36-6.

What the sign must say (ARS 9-499.05 B)

  • The parking restrictions.
  • What happens to a vehicle in violation (the disposition).
  • The maximum cost to the violator, including storage.
  • A phone number and an address where the vehicle can be located.
  • The sign must be “clearly visible and readable from any point in the lot” and at each entrance.

What the sign does not require (statewide)

  • A specific letter height or sign dimension. There is no statewide spec for size.
  • A city may add a size requirement by ordinance. Confirm with the city where the lot sits.

Phoenix adds fee caps (City Code 36-6)

  • A non consent tow that reached storage is capped at $105.
  • Storage is capped at $12 per day.
  • $20 maximum if release is demanded on site.
  • $40 maximum if release is demanded mid tow.

What the tower has to do (ARS 28-4836)

  • Phone the police within one hour of the tow.
  • The agency enters the tow in the ACIC database within three business days.
  • Failure to do either forfeits all towing and storage charges and is a class 1 misdemeanor.

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

Frequently asked questions

Does Arizona set a sign size for private property towing?

No. ARS 9-499.05 lists the required content but not a letter height or sign dimension. A city may set a size by ordinance, but no statewide spec exists.

Who pays the maximum cost the sign lists?

The vehicle owner pays the amount the sign lists, up to the city cap. Phoenix caps a non consent tow at $105 under City Code 36-6. A sign cannot exceed the cap.

What if the sign is missing or wrong?

Without a compliant sign under ARS 9-499.05, the lot is deemed open to public parking. The tower cannot tow under ARS 9-499.05 without it. ARS 28-4836 also requires a one hour police notice and ACIC entry.

Does the tower have to call the police?

Yes, within one hour under ARS 28-4836 A. The agency then enters the tow in ACIC within three business days.

Can my apartment tow me for parking in a marked spot?

Yes, if the sign at the entrance meets ARS 9-499.05 and the lot posts its restrictions. Phoenix adds City Code 36-144. See how to tow a car off private property for the landlord side.