Evanston, IL Parking Rules: Towing & Impound Rights (2026)

Section 10-6-4 puts the first duty on the Police Department. The notice must give the year, make, model, registration and VIN of the vehicle, its present location, the basis for the removal, the owner's right to a hearing under Section 10-6-5, the consequences of not requesting a hearing, the consequences of not reclaiming the vehicle, and a response deadline seven days from the date of notice. The department chooses between certified mail, return receipt requested, and personal delivery, and the mailing date or the hand-delivery date counts as the date notice was given. A shorter notice covering the hearing right, both sets of consequences and the deadline must also be posted at the Evanston police station and at every tow impound area.

Section 10-6-5 gives the owner a post-tow hearing on whether the tow was valid and whether the tow and storage charges are right. The hearing does not decide any citation issued for the same vehicle. The City Manager designates one or more hearing officers, who have the authority to require the issuing enforcement officer, other City personnel or witnesses to attend. The City carries the burden: it must show lawful authority for the tow under Section 10-6-2(A) by a preponderance of the evidence, and it makes a prima facie case by producing the police citation or police report and the tow report. If the officer finds the tow unlawful, a vehicle still impounded is released immediately, and an owner who already posted a cash bond is told the refund will be made within 48 hours. A continuance for good cause is capped at 14 days.

Section 10-6-6 sets the release conditions. Before taking the vehicle, the owner must furnish evidence of identity and ownership or right to possession, sign a receipt, and either elect or waive the hearing. An owner who waives pays the tow cost plus storage and takes possession at once. An owner who wants a hearing either posts a cash bond equal to the tow and storage cost for immediate release, with the hearing held within seven days of the posting, or leaves the vehicle impounded and requests a hearing within 24 hours (Saturdays, Sundays and holidays excluded) or within seven days on a date convenient to the owner and the City. A request made after 3:00 p.m. can be heard on the second working day. The Chief of Police issues regulations on the documents that prove ownership.