If you’ve ever found yourself stuck on the side of the road in Calgary, you know it can be stressful and confusing. Whether your car broke down, you were involved in an accident, or you simply need to move your vehicle from one place to another, knowing how to get a car towed in Calgary can save you time, money, and headaches.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through when and why towing happens, how to arrange a tow, your rights as a driver, and how KTC Towing Services can make the process quick and stress-free.
When and Why Cars Get Towed in Calgary
Not all tows are bad news—sometimes you arrange one yourself to get your car to a repair shop. But in Calgary, there are several common reasons vehicles are towed:
- Breakdowns & Accidents – Engine trouble, flat tyres, dead batteries, or collisions.
- Parking Violations – No-parking zones, fire lanes, street cleaning days.
- Private Property Rules – If you’re parked in a spot you shouldn’t be (like a reserved stall), the property owner can arrange a tow.
- Safety Concerns – A vehicle blocking traffic or posing a hazard will be removed by the city.
Tip: If your car is towed by the city for a parking violation, it will be taken to the Calgary Parking Authority impound lot.
Recent Towing Law Changes You Should Know
The City of Calgary has introduced new rules to protect drivers from “predatory towing” practices.
Now, tow truck operators cannot park within 200 metres of a collision unless they are called by the vehicle owner, the police, or emergency services.
This means you get to choose your towing company—and avoid overpaying for poor service.
Arranging a Tow in Calgary
If you need to arrange a tow yourself (not the city doing it), here’s the step-by-step process:
- Make Sure the Area is Safe
Turn on your hazard lights, use warning triangles if you have them, and stand in a safe location. - Call a Trusted Towing Company
Choose a licensed and reputable provider like KTC Towing. We operate 24/7 in NE, NW, SE, and SW Calgary. - Provide Clear Details
Share your exact location, vehicle type, and the issue you’re facing. This helps the towing team bring the right truck (flatbed, wheel-lift, etc.). - Ask for a Price Estimate
A professional company will give you a clear quote before dispatching the truck. - Stay with Your Vehicle
Unless it’s unsafe, staying with your car ensures a smooth handover.
If Your Car Has Already Been Towed
Sometimes you come back and your car is just… gone. Here’s what to do:
- Check if the City Towed It
Visit the Calgary Parking Authority’s website or call their impound lot at 403-537-7000. You can search by license plate to see if it’s there. - If It’s a Private Tow
Look for posted signs in the parking lot—they’ll list the towing company’s name and phone number. - Have Your Documents Ready
You’ll need your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance to get your car back.
Picking Up Your Vehicle from the Impound Lot
If your vehicle is at the city’s impound lot, here’s the usual process:
- Go to the Lot Location
Address: 400 39 Ave SE, Calgary (check the website for hours). - Bring Identification
You must show your driver’s licence, valid vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. - Pay the Fees
Towing fees are typically around $150–$200, plus daily storage charges of $43–$55. The longer it stays, the more it costs. - Drive Your Car Away
If it’s not roadworthy, arrange for a towing company like KTC Towing to pick it up directly from the lot.
Your Rights as a Vehicle Owner
Many Calgary drivers don’t realise they have rights when it comes to towing:
- You can choose your towing company (unless it’s an emergency removal by the city).
- You can ask for an itemised bill—don’t just accept a lump sum with no breakdown.
- You have the right to remove personal items from your vehicle before full payment.
- If you believe your car was towed illegally (no signage, wrong location), you can dispute it with the Calgary Parking Authority or take it to small claims court.
How to Avoid Unnecessary Tows
While sometimes towing is unavoidable, you can save yourself the stress with a few precautions:
- Always read parking signs carefully—especially downtown and near C-Train stations.
- Download the MyParking app to pay for and extend your parking remotely.
- Keep your car in good condition to avoid breakdowns in busy areas.
- If you have to leave your car due to an emergency, leave a note with contact details.
Why Choose KTC Towing in Calgary?
When you’re in a tough spot, you need more than just a tow truck—you need a team that cares. KTC Towing offers:
- 24/7 Availability – We’re ready anytime, anywhere in Calgary.
- Fast Response Times – Because waiting for hours is never an option.
- Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees, ever.
- Trained Operators – Professional, careful handling of your vehicle.
Whether it’s a roadside breakdown, accident recovery, or simply moving a vehicle from one location to another, we make the process simple and stress-free.
Conclusion
Getting a car towed in Calgary doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By knowing your rights, understanding the process, and having a reliable towing company like KTC Towing on speed dial, you can handle the situation with confidence.