Do this first (in order)
Speed matters: in Miami-Dade, a car collected within 6 hours of arriving at the lot has no storage fee.
- Check for tow-away signs where you parked — they often name the towing company and phone number.
- Call the local police non-emergency line. If it was towed (not stolen), they'll tell you which lot has it. If it may be stolen, file a report immediately and tell the rental company.
- Call your rental company (iRent: (305) 608-8691). They'll advise on retrieval and the agreement, and confirm what documents you'll need.
- Go to the impound lot with your ID, driver's license, and rental agreement to release the car.
What it costs in Miami-Dade
Towing companies in Miami-Dade County must follow the county's maximum non-consent rates. For a standard car:
- Tow from private property: up to $145 — or $72.50 if you catch it before it's towed away (the “drop rate”).
- Storage: free for the first 6 hours (Florida Statute §713.78), then up to $27.60 per day outdoors.
- Administrative fee: up to $38.20 after the first 24 hours.
- Police-directed tow: up to $158.07, with storage up to $31.14 per day.
So collecting the car the next day typically costs about $211 ($145 tow + one day of storage + the admin fee) — while collecting it within 6 hours means paying the tow fee only. The car also can't be taken to a lot more than 10 miles away. Some cities set their own maximums, so ask for an itemized receipt and compare it with the county schedule. The renter is responsible for these costs; if the tow was wrongful, you may be able to dispute it with the property owner or city.
Why rentals get towed
- Parked in a private/reserved spot, fire lane, or without a permit
- Overstaying a time-limited or street-cleaning zone
- Blocking a driveway, hydrant, or handicap space
- After an accident or breakdown
How to avoid it
🅿️ Read every parking sign, avoid unfamiliar private lots at night, and when in doubt use a paid garage. In Miami Beach and downtown especially, tow enforcement is aggressive.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find my towed rental car?
Call the local police non-emergency line — they can tell you which company towed it and where. Then call your rental company for guidance.
Who pays to get a towed rental car back?
The renter. You're responsible for the tow and impound/storage fees, which increase daily, so retrieve it quickly.
What do I need to release a rental from impound?
Typically your photo ID, driver's license, and the rental agreement. Call the impound lot first to confirm their exact requirements and hours.
Should I tell the rental company my rental was towed?
Yes, immediately. They need to know the car's status, may update your agreement, and can advise on retrieval.
How much does it cost to get a towed car back in Miami?
In Miami-Dade County, a private-property tow for a standard car is capped at $145 ($72.50 if released before it is towed away). Storage is free for the first 6 hours, then up to $27.60 per day outdoors, plus up to $38.20 in admin fees after 24 hours. Collecting the car the next day typically costs about $211.
Sources: Miami-Dade maximum non-consent towing rates (effective Oct 1, 2025) · Miami-Dade towing regulations · Florida Statute §713.78. Rates are reviewed annually — check the county schedule for the latest figures.