As the largest city in California's Central Valley and home to Fresno State, Fresno offers something the coastal markets do not: scale and affordability, with a fast-growing base of apartments and HOAs. More units means more parking to manage — and California's towing statute is as strict here as anywhere in the state.
What California law says about towing from private property
Private-property towing is governed by California Vehicle Code § 22658, one of the most detailed in the nation:
- Signs at all entrances, at least 17 by 22 inches, one-inch lettering, listing the local law-enforcement phone number and each authorized tow company's name and number.
- A property owner generally cannot authorize a tow within one hour of a vehicle parking.
- A photograph before removal is required for general-authorization tows of cars blocking fire lanes, hydrants, or entrances.
- Bad signage means double the towing and storage charges fall on the property owner.
How Fresno operators stay compliant and get paid
- Plate-level permits that scale across large, growing communities.
- Exportable, timestamped records behind every permit and tow decision.
- QR-code signage that lets residents and guests self-register and pay.
Why Fresno properties choose OpenParking
Guests scan a QR code, register their plate, and pay directly to you — your property keeps 100% of the parking revenue via Stripe. Five-minute setup, no contract, $50/month flat with a free 14-day trial.
This page is general information about California parking enforcement, not legal advice. Confirm current Vehicle Code 22658 requirements with a California attorney or your local ordinance before towing.