Tow yards must take debit cards for impound fees and can't demand extra ownership papers
Storage facilities holding towed or impounded vehicles must accept a valid bank debit card, not only a credit card or cash, for towing and storage fees. Asking for ownership documents beyond those the law lists counts as an unlawful refusal to release the vehicle.
Who it affects
Tow yards, vehicle storage facilities and owners claiming impounded cars
When
This law takes effect on January 1, 2027. California laws take effect on January 1 of the year after they are signed, unless the law says otherwise.
- : Signed into law
- : This law takes effect
Official text
California AB 2437: Impounded vehicles.
On California Legislative Information. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.