(A) Tow firms shall make every effort to accommodate the release of vehicle towed, upon payment for services rendered.
(B) Tow firms shall not release any vehicles with “hold” orders placed on them by the Police Department. This includes guidelines under the Impoundment of Motor Vehicle (Administrative Tow Fee), O’Fallon City Code of Ordinances, Chapter 70, § 70.086.
(C) Tow firms shall not release a vehicle unless the claimant can prove rightful ownership or possession (i.e., title, registration, insurance card), along with identification of the person claiming the vehicle. If the claimant is not the rightful owner, that person must have a notarized letter from the owner authorizing the claimant to take possession of the vehicle or personal items.
(D) Tow firms must release items of personal property (i.e., child safety seat, medications) to the lawful owner on request prior to payment of any charges, provided the property is contained within the vehicle and is not an essential part of the vehicle. Any items removed from the vehicle shall be noted on the pink copy of the tow report provided by the Police Department. Any questions regarding ownership of the vehicle or its contents shall be directed to the Police Department. The hours of availability shall be 06:00 to 18:00 hours, Monday through Friday, and 06:00 through 12:00 on Saturdays, except on days the business is closed in recognition of a holiday or due to a bona fide emergency.
(E) Except for vehicles with a police hold for evidence or seizure, all vehicles stored or impounded as a result of the tow ordered by the Police Department, shall be made available for release to the owner of the vehicle, or his or her authorized representative, and shall also be made available to the owner’s insurance agent, insurance adjuster, or body shop or car dealer for the purpose of estimating or appraising damages. The hours of availability shall be 06:00 to 18:00 hours, Monday through Friday, and 06:00 through 12:00 on Saturdays, except on days the business is closed in recognition of a holiday or due to a bona fide emergency situation.
(F) Vehicles impounded by a towing firm shall be accessible to the Police Department personnel at any time requested by the Police Department.
(Ord. 3990, passed 7-3-2017)