Dayton guide
How to find a towed car in Dayton, Ohio, what documents to bring, and your rights under Ohio's private tow-away zone law.
If your car disappeared from a street or public place, call the Dayton Police Department's Auto Recovery Unit at 937-333-1058 (weekdays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.). If it was in a private lot, look for a posted sign. Ohio requires tow-away signs at private lots, and the sign should name the towing company and give a phone number.
If you believe the car was stolen rather than towed, report it to police right away.
Plan to bring your photo ID and proof of ownership: the title, current registration or a memorandum title. If someone else is picking up the car for you, the city asks for a notarized statement from the owner. Call ahead so you do not make two trips.
Cars held for crime-related reasons need a release from the Auto Recovery Unit at 335 West Third Street before the tow yard can hand them over.
Tow yards charge daily storage, so move quickly. Ask what forms of payment the yard accepts before you go; some do not take personal checks.
Ohio Revised Code 4513.601 sets the rules for private tow-away zones, including the signs that must be posted. A tow from a lot without proper signs may not be lawful.
Tow trucks that operate for hire in Ohio must be registered with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. If you think a company overcharged you or broke the rules, PUCO takes complaints, and you can also contact the City of Dayton.
Walk around the car at the lot and compare it with any photos you have. Note new damage on the release paperwork before you sign and leave, and take pictures. It is much harder to prove damage once the car has left the yard.