DPW tow crane operators may tow a vehicle, once it is ticketed, for any parking violation.Vehicles also may be towed at the request of the Secret Service or Metropolitan Police Department to aid the President’s travel throughout the city. Typically, DPW tows vehicles that pose a danger to the public or impede the flow of traffic.

How You Can Help

• Listen to the local media (radio and television) to learn if a snow emergency has been or will be declared and avoid parking on snow emergency routes.
• If you are unsure you will be able to move your vehicle from a rush hour street before rush hour begins, please avoid parking there.
• Call the Towing Control Dispatch Center at (202) 541-6083 if you believe your vehicle has been towed.

Just the Facts

• In FY 2009, almost 20,000 vehicles were towed for rush hour violations.