Towing

Find My Vehicle

Information for Vehicle Owners

Need help locating a towed vehicle?

Arlington County has changed the notification process for towing. Information on towed or repossessed vehicles can now be found online at search.autoreturn.com. The online portal is updated in real time. If you cannot locate your vehicle or need additional support using the online portal, call the County non-emergency number at 703-558-2222.

Filing a Complaint

The Arlington County Towing Manager's Office investigates all trespass towing complaints. If you believe your vehicle was towed in error, or that County regulations were not followed properly, you may request an investigation by submitting an online form (below) or by calling 571-400-2971.

Submit a Complaint

Know Your Rights
Read the County’s towing ordinance to understand the rights of vehicle owners and the obligations/responsibilities of towing and recovery owners and private property owners.

Information for Property Owners and Towing and Recovery Operators

Arlington County issues permits to towing and recovery operators performing trespass towing services from private properties in Arlington County. Towing and recovery operators and properties from which vehicles are towed must comply with the County’s towing ordinance. Any private property trespass tows conducted in a manner not compliant with the County’s towing ordinance, at the time of the tow, are subject to reimbursement of fees to the vehicle owner.  

Prior to performing trespass tows for the first time, operators should call 571-400-2971 (Monday - Friday 8am to 4pm) for information on obtaining a permit to conduct private property tows in Arlington County. 

News Updates

December 2025 - County Board Adopts Trespass Towing Amendments

The updated ordinance can be found here:

The summary of changes adopted by the County Board were as follows:

1. Increase in the fee to $160 for a light duty impound 
2. Requirement for fee placard on tow trucks.