Why does Arizona have two separate fees for impound?

Arizona separates the administrative/release process from the actual vehicle storage. The city/police department handles the paperwork and authorization (admin fee), while a private tow company handles the physical storage (tow + storage fees). You must pay both to get your vehicle.

Can I pay both fees at the same location?

No. In most cases, you first go to the police department or city office to pay the administrative fee and get release paperwork. Then you take that paperwork to the tow yard to pay storage fees and retrieve your vehicle. They are completely separate transactions.

Why won't the police station accept my credit card?

Many Arizona police departments only accept money orders or cashier's checks for administrative release fees to prevent chargebacks and fraud. Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods before driving to the station.

What payment does the tow yard accept?

Most tow yards accept cash, credit/debit cards, and sometimes money orders. However, some may have a 'cash only' policy or add a surcharge for card payments. Call ahead to confirm.

How do I know which impound lot has my car?

This information should be on your arrest paperwork or tow receipt. If you don't have it, call the police department that made the arrest - they have records of which contracted tow company took your vehicle.

Are Arizona impound fees regulated?

Yes, but rates vary. Some cities cap storage fees (e.g., Phoenix has a $25/day maximum for police tows). However, administrative fees are set by each municipality. Always ask for an itemized receipt showing all charges.

Arizona's Two-Fee Impound System (Don't Get Surprised)

Unlike most states, Arizona requires two separate payments to release your vehicle from impound. Here's how to avoid showing up with the wrong form of payment.

Last verified: January 2026

The $500 Surprise Nobody Tells You About

Here's what happens to most people: They get the admin fee receipt from the police station, drive to the tow yard thinking they're done, and get hit with a second bill for $500+ in tow and storage fees.

The Two-Payment Process

Police Station / City Office

Pay the Administrative Release Fee to get authorization paperwork.

Typical cost: $150-$300
Payment: Usually Money Order or Cashier's Check ONLY

Tow Yard

Pay towing and storage fees to actually get your vehicle.

Typical cost: $150 tow + $35-55/day storage
Payment: Usually Cash or Credit Card

City Administrative Fees by Location

Administrative release fees vary by city. Here's what to expect:

City	Admin Fee	Payment Methods	Notes
Phoenix	$150	Money Order, Cashier's Check	Cash accepted at some windows
Tucson	$150	Money Order, Cashier's Check, Credit Card	Credit card may have surcharge
Mesa	$150	Money Order, Cashier's Check	Check specific requirements
Scottsdale	$175	Money Order, Cashier's Check	Premium rates apply
Gilbert	$150	Money Order, Cashier's Check	Standard processing
Tempe	$150	Various	Call ahead to confirm

Important: Call the police department BEFORE going to confirm exact fees and accepted payment methods. Many offices only accept money orders or cashier's checks — no cash or credit cards.

Tow Yard Fees (The Second Payment)

After you get release paperwork from the city, you still need to pay the tow company:

Initial Tow

$150-$250

Daily Storage

$35-$55/day

7-Day Total

$400-$650

Tow Yard Payment Tips

Most accept cash and credit/debit cards
Some charge a 3-5% surcharge for credit cards
Call ahead to confirm hours — many close on weekends
Bring the release paperwork from the police station

Your Payment Checklist

Before leaving home, make sure you have:

For the Police Station

Money Order or Cashier's Check for ~$150-$300
Valid photo ID
Vehicle registration or title
Arrest/tow paperwork (if you have it)

For the Tow Yard

Release paperwork from police station
Cash or credit card for $300-$600+ (varies by days stored)
Valid photo ID (again)
Proof of insurance (to drive away, or arrange tow)

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official Resources

Related Arizona Guides

Arizona Impound Overview Early Release Options Interlock: No Employer Exemption

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