Colorado Vehicle Impound Laws & Recovery Guide
Everything you need to know about getting your car out of impound after a DUI arrest in Colorado, including Denver metro pricing differences, insurance requirements, and how to minimize daily storage fees.
Last verified: June 2026
Act Quickly to Minimize Costs
In Colorado, vehicle impound after a DUI arrest is typically short-term unless your license is suspended or revoked. Storage fees accumulate daily ($35-$65/day), so retrieving your vehicle quickly can save you hundreds of dollars.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Contact the arresting agency to find out where your vehicle is stored
- Call the impound lot to confirm their requirements, hours, and fee schedule
- Verify your auto insurance is active (or obtain coverage if needed)
- Gather required documents: valid ID, vehicle registration, insurance proof
- Arrange for payment of all fees (call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods)
- If your license is suspended, arrange for a licensed driver to retrieve and drive the vehicle
Colorado Insurance & Documentation Requirements
Colorado requires proof of liability insurance to operate a vehicle. Most impound facilities will require proof of insurance before releasing your vehicle.
Required Documents
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Vehicle registration or title
- Proof of insurance (card or declaration page)
- Valid driver's license (yours or the person picking up)
- Payment for all fees
If Your Insurance Lapsed
You'll need to obtain new insurance coverage before retrieving your vehicle. Many insurers can issue same-day policies. Shop around for quick coverage options.
Alternative: Have someone with valid insurance pick up the vehicle and drive it as a permissive driver on their policy.
Typical Impound Costs in Colorado
| Fee Type | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Initial Tow (Hook-up) | $150 - $275 |
| Daily Storage Fee | $35 - $65/day |
| Administrative Fee | $75 - $150 |
| Gate Fee (after hours) | $50 - $100 |
3 Days
$325-550
7 Days
$500-900
30 Days
$1,500+
Actual costs vary by county and tow company. Denver metro area rates are typically higher than rural Colorado.
Who Can Retrieve Your Vehicle
If You're the Registered Owner
- Valid photo ID matching the registration
- Vehicle registration or title
- Proof of insurance
- Valid driver's license (if you'll be driving it)
- Payment for all fees
If Someone Else Is Picking It Up
- Written authorization from registered owner
- Copy of owner's ID
- Their own valid photo ID
- Valid driver's license
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle registration or title
- Payment for all fees
Important: Requirements may vary by impound facility and jurisdiction. Always call ahead to confirm specific documentation and payment requirements.
Challenging the Impound
If you believe the impound was unlawful or fees are excessive, you may be able to request a hearing. Deadlines and procedures vary by jurisdiction in Colorado.
Grounds for Challenge
- Whether the impound was authorized
- Reasonableness of tow and storage fees
- Compliance with notification requirements
- Procedural errors in the impound process
How to Request a Hearing
Contact the court or administrative office in the jurisdiction where your vehicle was impounded. Request information about the hearing process and filing deadlines (typically 10-20 days).
Tip: Consult with a DUI attorney before filing. They can evaluate whether you have valid grounds to challenge.
County-Specific Impound Information
Each county in Colorado has different impound lots, fees, and procedures. Select your county below for specific information:
+ 24 more counties available
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