Private Property Impounds

Effective 1/12/09 Private Property Impounds must have the proper signage posted in order for a car to be considered abandoned and removed by a wrecker company. In accordance to the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code 257.252k: An owner or lessor of private real property shall post a notice that meets all of the following requirements before authorizing the towing or removal of a vehicle from the real property without the consent of the owner or other person who is legally entitled to possess the vehicle.

1. The notice shall be prominently displayed at each point of entry for vehicular access to the real property. If the real property lacks curbs or access barriers, not less than 1 notice shall be posted for each 100 ft. or road frontage.

2. The notice clearly indicates in letters not less than 2 inches high on contrasting background that unauthorized vehicles will be towed away at the owner's expense.

3. The notice provides the name and telephone number of the towing service responsible for towing or removing vehicles from that property.

4. The notice is permanently installed with the bottom of the notice located not less than 4 ft. from the ground and is continuously maintained on the property for not less than 24 hours before a vehicle is towed or removed.

According to the Township Planning Department, business owners do not require sign review or permits to post the signs. Business owners may visit the Michigan Department of Secretary of State for further information.