Yavapai County Vehicle Impound Guide

The Yavapai County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) utilizes private tow yards, not a single county facility, for vehicle storage after an impound. The specific tow lot used will be identified on the "Vehicle Removal Report".

Why Was My Car Impounded in Yavapai County?

In Yavapai County, your vehicle might be impounded under Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 28-3511, the "Mandatory Impoundment Statute," if you are caught driving under specific conditions. This includes driving with a revoked or suspended license, extreme or aggravated DUI, or operating a vehicle without a functioning ignition interlock device when one is required. Vehicles obstructing public thoroughfares under A.R.S. § 28-872 may also be impounded, potentially with a shorter 7-day hold compared to the standard 30 days.

How Long is the Impound Hold?

Vehicle impoundment in Yavapai County typically involves a mandatory 30-day hold period.

Who Pays for the Tow and Storage?

The vehicle owner is liable for all towing, storage, and administrative charges incurred during the impoundment. The law explicitly forbids the release of the vehicle until all immobilization, towing, and storage charges are paid in full, as per A.R.S. § 28-3512.

Getting Your Car Back: YCSO Release Procedures

Retrieving your vehicle from impound in Yavapai County is a two-step process. First, you must obtain a release order from a YCSO substation. Then, you must retrieve the vehicle from the private tow yard where it's being stored.

Important Notes for Dealing with YCSO:

• Appointment Required: YCSO administrative processing is by appointment only. Walk-ins are generally not accepted.
• Hours: Appointments are scheduled Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Offices are closed on weekends and holidays.
• Verification is Key: Before visiting a YCSO location, call to verify that the location is open and your report is available for release.

What You'll Need for the YCSO Release:

To obtain the "Vehicle Release Form" from the Sheriff’s Office, the registered owner must present specific documents:

• Valid Driver’s License: You must present a valid driver’s license. If your license is suspended (the reason for the impound), you cannot drive the vehicle. You’ll need someone with a valid license to drive it.
• Proof of Ownership: Typically, this is the current vehicle registration. If the registration is expired or suspended, the vehicle cannot be released until it is reinstated.
• Proof of Insurance: You must present a valid insurance card or policy document specifically covering the impounded vehicle.

What Happens if I Don't Claim My Vehicle?

Failure to claim the vehicle within ten (10) days after the mandatory hold period can lead to forfeiture. The towing company is authorized to file for an abandoned title, effectively seizing ownership of the vehicle to satisfy the debt.

Yavapai County Justice Court Locations:

Knowing which Justice Court has jurisdiction over your case is crucial. Here are a few locations:

• Prescott Justice Court: 2030 Commerce Drive, Prescott, AZ 86305. Phone: (928) 771-3357.
• Verde Valley Justice Court: 2830 E. Commonwealth Drive, Camp Verde, AZ 86322. Phone: (928) 554-8525.
• Seligman Justice Court: 54150 Floyd Street, Seligman, AZ 86337. Phone: (928) 422-3281.

Before visiting any YCSO location, call and verify that the location is open and your report is available for release. Contact the main records line or the specific substation to confirm where the file is held.