Fairfield County Vehicle Impound Guide

Getting Your Car Back After DUI Arrest in Fairfield County

After a DUI arrest in Fairfield County, Ohio, one of your first concerns is likely getting your vehicle back. Vehicles are typically impounded following a DUI arrest for several reasons: Ohio law may mandate immobilization for repeat offenses, or the vehicle may pose a hazard if left on the roadside. Understanding the process and acting quickly is crucial to minimize expenses and avoid further complications. This guide provides the steps you need to take to retrieve your vehicle.

Where Is Your Car?

Unlike cities with centralized impound lots, Fairfield County utilizes a rotational towing system with private vendors. This means your car was likely towed to a private lot contracted by either the Lancaster Police Department or the Fairfield County Sheriff's Office.

While specific impound lot data for Fairfield County is not available, the Columbus Police-Auto Impound lot is located at 2700 Impound Lot Rd, Columbus, OH 43207.

How to Find Your Vehicle

Locating your vehicle requires contacting the law enforcement agency involved in your arrest:

• Check your arrest paperwork: The arresting officer should have provided information about the towing company used.
• Call the Lancaster Police Department: If arrested by city officers, call (740) 687-6680, extension "1".
• Call the Fairfield County Sheriff's Office: If arrested by county deputies, call (740) 652-7900. Reference your booking number when you call to expedite the process.

What You Need to Retrieve Your Vehicle

Before heading to the impound lot, gather the necessary documents to prove ownership and legal right to retrieve the vehicle.

Required Documents

• Valid driver's license: If your license is suspended, see the section below.
• Vehicle registration or title: A physical copy of the vehicle title, memorandum title, valid unexpired vehicle registration, or formal lease agreement is required. A recent bill of sale from a licensed motor vehicle dealer is also acceptable.
• Proof of insurance: To verify the vehicle can legally be driven on public roads.
• Payment for fees: Be prepared to pay all towing and storage fees.

If You Don't Have a Valid License

If your driver's license is suspended due to the DUI arrest (an Administrative License Suspension or ALS), you cannot legally drive the vehicle yourself. You have two options:

• Have a licensed friend or family member retrieve it: They will need their valid driver's license.
• Required Documentation for Licensed Driver: The licensed driver will need to present their valid driver's license, a signed authorization letter from you (the vehicle owner), and the vehicle's title or registration.

It's important to note that to secure the release of your vehicle from a private rotation lot in Fairfield County, you'll need an official police release form. This requires an in-person visit to the law enforcement agency that initiated the tow, such as the Lancaster Police Department Records Office located at 130 South Broad Street, Lancaster, OH 43130, operating Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

If the required documents (proof of insurance or vehicle registration) are inside the impounded vehicle, most private yards will allow you brief access to retrieve them during business hours. This may require an initial trip to the tow yard, a subsequent trip to the police department to get the release form, and a final return trip to the tow yard for payment and vehicle removal.

Costs & Fees in Fairfield County

Towing and storage fees in Fairfield County are subject to regulations set by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) and local ordinances. These fees can add up quickly, so understanding the cost structure is essential.

• Base Towing Fee (Light Duty): Regulated by PUCO guidelines, typically ranging between $150 and $240 depending on the specific private lot.
• Heavy Duty Towing: Up to $410.00 for vehicles exceeding 26,000 pounds.
• Daily Storage Fee: Maximum $25.00 to $30.00 per day. Storage fees typically begin accruing at midnight or after the first 12 to 24 hours of impoundment.
• Administrative / Processing Fee: Permitted under PUCO guidelines, often ranging from $25 to $50 to cover title searches and notifications.
• After-Hours / Gate Fee: Many lots charge extra for releasing vehicles outside standard business hours, typically $50 to $75.

IMPORTANT: Storage fees accumulate every day. Retrieve your vehicle as quickly as possible.

Payment

Contact the impound lot in advance to confirm their accepted payment methods. Many private lots require payment in cash. If they accept debit or credit cards, be aware of potential processing surcharges (typically 3% to 5%). Personal checks are generally not accepted.

Timeline

Act Immediately

Storage fees start accruing soon after your vehicle is towed. Every day that passes increases the total cost.

After 30 Days

Most states allow the lot to initiate a lien sale if the vehicle remains unclaimed. Do not let it reach this point, as you risk losing your vehicle permanently.

If You Can't Afford the Fees

If you're struggling to afford the impound fees:

• Contact a family member or friend for financial assistance.
• Inquire with the impound lot about potential payment plans.
• Consult with a DUI attorney in our attorney directory. In some cases, fees can be negotiated or challenged.

After Retrieval

• Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before leaving the lot.
• Document any damage with photos and videos.
• Report any damage to the lot manager in writing before you drive away.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where do I go to get the release form for my vehicle in Lancaster? You will need to visit the Lancaster Police Department Records Office at 130 South Broad Street, Lancaster, OH 43130, operating Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
2. What happens if my car is impounded due to a repeat OVI offense in Fairfield County? Ohio law mandates vehicle immobilization or impoundment in cases involving a second or subsequent OVI offense. The court will place a block on the vehicle's registration, and it cannot be released until the court issues an official Notice of Immobilization Compliance order.
3. What forms of payment are accepted at the Fairfield County Clerk of Courts for bail bonds? Bail bond payments must be rendered entirely in cash or via a certified cashier's check. The Fairfield County courts explicitly and strictly prohibit the use of credit cards or debit cards for the payment of bonds.