What happens when the police department tows my vehicle?
Vehicles towed by the Saint Paul Police Department are taken the Impound Lot, located at 830 Barge Channel Road. Vehicles towed as part of a snow emergency are taken to the Snow Impound Lot, located at 1129 Cathlin Street (near the Minnesota State Fairgrounds).
Within five business days, the City of Saint Paul mails a notice to the registered owner of the vehicle.
If the vehicle is not picked up within 15 days of the notice, it may be sold at auction.
How can I get my vehicle from the impound lot?
The Impound Lot is open every day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
To get a vehicle out of the impound lot, you will need:
- Identification: Valid state-issued ID, permit or driver's license (a valid driver's license is required to drive the vehicle from the lot), passport, military ID, or consulate ID.
- Proof of ownership: Title, bill of sale, or lease agreement.
- Proof of insurance: Up to date insurance card or insurance binder for the vehicle that is currently impounded. You can bring this in person, fax to 651-298-4938, or email to SPPD-Impound@ci.stpaul.mn.us.
- Cash or credit to pay the towing and storage fees.
If you're not the registered owner, you will also need authorization from the owner in one of the following ways:
- For a personal vehicle: Notarized letter with a copy of the owner’s photo ID or Power of Attorney.
- For a rental or company owned vehicle: The rental company must be notified by the renter, and the vehicle will only be released with faxed authorization from the rental company on company letterhead.
- For a repossession: An Affidavit of Repossession and a Lien Holder’s Card are required. No exceptions.
- Vehicle Release Form
See FAQ for how to pick up an impounded vehicle if you don't have a valid driver's license.
What fees will I need to pay?
- Standard tow: $225.24*
- Snow emergency tow: $246.00 or more
- Storage charge: $15 each additional day, starting at midnight
- Parking ticket, if applicable.
* This is the fee for standard police tows. Please note: Tow pricing may be higher depending on the type of tow service required.
Accepted forms of payment
We accept cash or credit payments. Business checks are subject to approval by management.