10-15 minutes for online application, 3 business days for review
Background
PBOT’s Regulatory division manages a hardship fund to help victims of auto theft and those living on a low income so they can more easily retrieve their towed and impounded vehicles within Portland city limits. Money for the fund comes from a $5 surcharge on tows collected as part of the city’s towing contracts.
- The city will pay up to $300 in towing and storage fees for applicants who qualify, while the fund lasts.
- Tow must have occurred within the City of Portland and have been conducted by a contracted tower.
- Tow cannot be a PPI (Private Property Impound) tow.
- Funds are paid to the towing/impounding company, not the applicant.
How to apply
Those requesting a towing hardship must apply within 5 business days of the tow and must be processed before you've retrieved your vehicle. Funds are issued for NON-PPI (Private Property Impound tows) and may only be issued directly to the tower.
Applicants must demonstrate the following:
- Proof of vehicle ownership - This benefit is for registered vehicle owners ONLY and are not transferable. Valid photo ID required.
- Valid personal auto insurance (as required by Oregon state law)
- No outstanding parking citations
Additionally, applicants must provide proof of ONE of the following:
- Victim of auto theft (with copy of police report); OR
- Eligible for any one of the following programs:
- SNAP benefits approval letter
- WIC Program for women, infants, and children approval/benefits letter
- Student financial aid acceptance/approval letter
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or approval/benefits letter
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) approval/benefits letter
- PBOT’s Transportation Wallet Access for All program benefits letter
Applicants may not apply more than once in a 2-year period (except for victims of auto theft).
After you apply
PBOT’s Towing Administration staff will review and issue a determination within 3 business days, although extenuating circumstances could extend this timeline.
If approved, PBOT will cover up to $300 directly to the towing/impounding company on behalf of the registered vehicle owner for towing and storage fees. PBOT issues a voucher to the tower via Auto Return and to the vehicle owner via email. Vehicles can typically be picked up within the hour.
Appeals and exceptions
If PBOT denies your application for a towing hardship, you may request a special review by emailing regulatory@portlandoregon.gov.
PBOT Regulatory management will make a final determination within 2 business days and may grant an exception to the process if appropriate.