Can My Landlord Tow My Car for Expired Tags in St. Louis, MO?

Question from Gyrici, Can My Landlord Tow My Car for Expired Tags in St. Louis, MO?

Answer from AI:

In general, landlords have certain rights and responsibilities when it comes to the property they own and manage. However, whether a landlord can tow a tenant’s car from a shared parking lot due to expired tags can depend on several factors, including local laws and regulations, the terms of the lease agreement, and the specific circumstances.

Local Laws and Regulations

In many jurisdictions, local laws and regulations may allow landlords to tow vehicles that are in violation of certain rules or regulations. For example, if a vehicle is parked in a fire lane, blocking access to other vehicles, or otherwise posing a safety hazard, a landlord may be able to have it towed. However, the specific laws and regulations can vary from one jurisdiction to another, so it’s important to check the local laws in St. Louis, MO.

Lease Agreement

The terms of your lease agreement may also play a role. If your lease agreement includes specific rules about vehicle parking, maintenance, or registration, and you’ve agreed to these terms, your landlord may be able to enforce these rules. For example, if your lease agreement states that all vehicles parked in the shared parking lot must have current registration, your landlord may be able to have your car towed if your tags are expired.

Specific Circumstances

The specific circumstances can also be a factor. For example, if your car is not causing any problems or posing any safety hazards, and there are no specific rules in your lease agreement about vehicle registration, your landlord may not have a valid reason to tow your car.

However, it’s important to note that this is a general explanation and may not apply to your specific situation. If you’re facing this issue, you should consult with a legal professional for personalized advice.

Steps to Take

If you’re facing this issue, here are some general steps you might take:

1. Review your lease agreement to see if it includes any specific rules about vehicle parking, maintenance, or registration.
2. Check the local laws and regulations in St. Louis, MO to see if they allow landlords to tow vehicles for reasons like expired tags.
3. If you believe your landlord is acting unfairly or illegally, consider consulting with a legal professional for advice.

For more information, you might find it helpful to visit the St. Louis City Neighborhood Stabilization Office or the Missouri Attorney General’s Office for resources on landlord-tenant law.