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​Impound Classificatio​ns

Each impounded vehicle receives a classification based on a combination of factors, including what the driver was charged or cited with, prior criminal convictions of the driver, and whether the driver is on the Scofflaw list.

The classifications are:  
    • ​Decline – This means the Municipality is declining to retain the vehicle for a longer impound. This classification applies to vehicles impounded for “lesser offenses,” usually DWOI and some DWLS/R/C.  These vehicles can generally be picked up right away, after payment of fees owed to the Municipality (usually a $200.00 administrative fee) plus towing and storage fees at the tow yard.  

​Note: If the driver was charged or cited only under the Alaska Statutes not under Anchorage Municipal Code, no fees will be owed to the Municipality of Anchorage. The State may charge its own fees. 
    • ​​​30-Day Impound – This classification applies to vehicles impounded for first-time DUI or Refusal, and some DWLS/R/C. This means the Municipality is able to impound the vehicle for 30-days. At the end of the 30-day impound, you are responsible for a $410.00 administrative fee to the Municipality, plus towing and storage fees at the tow yard. If you do not pick up your vehicle at the end of the impound period, it and all its contents may be sold at auction. 

Under a 30-day impound you may have additional options to get the vehicle out early. Depending on your situation, these options might include a Vehicle Return Bond or signing a Stipulated Settlement with the Municipality.  
    • ​Vehicle Return Bond – In some situations, you can get the vehicle out of impounds temporarily while you wait for the outcome of the criminal charges against the driver. You will pay a $250.00 bond fee, plus a $410.00 administrative fee, plus the towing and storage fees at the tow yard. While the vehicle is out on bond, you cannot sell it or transfer the title to someone else. If the driver is convicted in their criminal case, you have 5 days to return the vehicle to finish the 30-day impound and contact our office for a refund of the vehicle return bond. If the vehicle is not returned to the tow yard, you forfeit the bond and a tow locate will be placed on the vehicle. If the driver is not convicted, contact us to provide documentation and we will refund $460.00.  
 
    • ​​Stipulated Settlement – If the registered owner was not in the vehicle when it was impounded, you may have the option to sign a legally binding agreement with the Municipality. You will have to agree not to let the same driver operate your vehicles again without a valid driver’s license, while under the influence, or without proper insurance. If that driver is caught violating this agreement, the vehicle will be forfeited and auctioned by the Municipality. The cost for this option varies but is generally between $520-620.00, plus towing and storage fees at the tow yard. ​

​**Each situation is different. This page is intended to provide general information only. Please contact our office to discuss your case and find out what your options are.  




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Citation Acronym List

DUI: Driving under the influence

DWLR/S/C: Driving without proper license

DWOI: Driving without insurance​