[ca] Tow Company Said They Had Police Exemption For 10-mile Storage Rule But Didn’t Attach Proof—next Steps?

Location: California My car was illegally towed from my apartment complex. I disputed the tow under California Vehicle Code § 22658…some of the arguments being:

• The tow company stored my car at a lot about 12 miles away, outside the default 10-mile radius limit set by CVC § 22658(n)(1)(A). I used the crows method yes on Google maps and other sites

• This is only allowed if they have PRIOR general written approval from law enforcement per § 22658(n)(1)(B)—a 30-mile exception.

• I sent two certified mail demand letters requesting the exemption document, proof who authorized the tow (property manager or resident), and why I was charged a full day’s storage (less than 2 hours).

• Their corporate counsel replied by email, said the exemption was “attached,” but only included the invoice/receipt (no exemption or police letter).

• They also referenced my first letter, not the second, and ignored my citation to the new AB 987 storage-fee law. They charged me a full day’s storage when it was stored for under 2 hours. AB 987 on October 6 said they can’t charge more than 50% if picked in 4 hours.

I called local PD public records but they were not willing to give in writing if they have any contract with them as they don’t know

Questions: 1. Can I proceed with a small claims case or chargeback using the fact that they failed to provide the required exemption document, even after claiming it was attached? 2. Do I need to send another written “last chance” request, or is this failure enough? 3. If they show up in court with the exemption for the first time, does their failure to produce it sooner matter? 4. Is there anything else I should do to preserve my rights or document the missing attachment now? Thanks for any insight from people with experience in CA small claims, towing law, or consumer disputes!