Impound Lot Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Municipal Impound Lot?

The Municipal Impound Lot is a safe, secure storage facility for vehicles seized by Peace Officers. Vehicles are commonly seized if they are in violation of parking or driving regulations or if they are involved in serious accidents. The Calgary Municipal Impound Lot will hold 957 vehicles.

Where is the Municipal Impound Lot?

The address of the Impound Lot is 400 - 39 Avenue SE T2G 5P8.

Why do we have a Parking Enforcement program?

Parking Enforcement ensures compliance with The City and Province's parking regulations. Through voluntary compliance, Parking Enforcement's role is to improve public safety, traffic flow, and conformance to community standards. This is done through public education and public awareness. Enforcement through ticketing and/or towing is a last resort.

Why does CPA manage the Municipal Impound Lot?

CPA took over management of the Impound Lot (400-39 Ave SE T2G 5P8) in 1994 in a move to improve customer service at the facility. This change has resulted in a decrease in fees charged to customers for towing and storage of vehicles as well as faster notification to vehicle owners.

Why was my vehicle towed to the Impound Lot?

Generally, a vehicle is towed to the Municipal Impound Lot if it violates parking regulations. Peace Officers can remove vehicles that are parked illegally, unattended and obstructing traffic or are without valid licence plates or permits. A vehicle parked in a restricted traffic lane during rush hour is a safety hazard and may obstruct more than 500 other vehicles each hour. Damaged, derelict or stolen vehicles may also be towed to the Impound Lot.

Will I be able to drive my vehicle away from the Impound Lot?

You will be able to drive away if you have a valid operator's licence, you are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs and the vehicle is roadworthy, properly insured and has valid licence plates. If you do not have insurance or registration, you may not drive the vehicle from the Lot. However, you may have it towed at your expense to private property.

What are the fees to recover my vehicle from the Impound Lot?

You are responsible for the costs of towing plus a daily storage fee. Fee schedules are posted at the entrance of the Impound Lot. Cash, debit card, Visa or MasterCard are accepted for payment.

Why do I pay a towing and storage fee when my car was towed to the Impound Lot after it was reported stolen?

The costs of towing and storage of all vehicles taken to the Impound Lot are the responsibility of the owner of the vehicle. As a vehicle owner you may purchase insurance that covers all costs associated with the theft of your vehicle. If you choose not to purchase this coverage, you assume the risk for all costs associated with theft.

What happens to unclaimed vehicles?

Every attempt possible is made to locate the registered owner of an impounded vehicle. Unclaimed vehicles are sold at Public Auction. These auctions are held monthly. Vehicles may be scrapped if they are deemed to have no value. After recovery of towing and storage fees, the revenue generated through the disposal goes to the Alberta Government. A registered owner may claim a vehicle anytime prior to the sale of the vehicle and is entitled to claim the residual revenue after sale from the Alberta Government. Allow 60 days after sale for payment processing.

What do I need to provide to claim my vehicle at the Impound Lot?

You must provide proof of ownership and identification and pay all towing and storage fees.

Are vehicles sold at auction free from liens?

Under the Motor Vehicle Act, the last registered owner as well as any lien holder for the vehicle must be notified before the vehicle can be auctioned. Lien holders may claim vehicles that are unclaimed by the vehicle owner. Lien holders that fail to respond to the registered letter advising of the pending disposal forfeit their lien.