Can a company tow your car without your permission in Virginia? Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Here is the difference between a legal and an illegal tow.
When a Tow Is Legal in Virginia
Yes, a car can sometimes be towed without the owner's direct permission, but only in specific, rule-bound situations. Police-ordered tows (after an accident, for a disabled vehicle in the roadway, or a law-enforcement hold) are legal. Private-property trespass tows are legal too, but only when the lot has posted clear, compliant signage in advance and the company follows the fee and notice rules.
When a Tow May Be Illegal
A tow can cross the line when:
- The private lot had no posted signage, or the signs were hidden or missing required details
- The fees exceeded your locality's maximum schedule
- The company refused an itemized receipt
- You were blocked from retrieving personal belongings
- The vehicle was on public property and removed without authority
Any of these can make a tow improper. See your rights in our predatory towing guide.
What to Do If You Were Towed Improperly
Document the scene (especially signage), get an itemized receipt, compare charges to the local maximum schedule, and file a complaint with the local authority that regulates towing. Amounts within Virginia's small claims limit can be pursued in court. Full details in our Virginia towing laws guide.