It’s December 1, and the first major snowfalls of the season have already hit the Twin Cities.

For thousands of residents, this means the dreaded “Snow Emergency” dance. But before you pay a $300 impound fee, you need to know your rights under Minnesota’s towing statutes.

The ”Drop Fee” Rule

This is the most common dispute we hear about on the scanner. Whether a tow operator must release a car to an owner who arrives before it is towed away, and for what fee, depends on your city’s ordinance and its towing contract. Check your city’s rules before you rely on it.