KEY TAKEAWAYS
- A standard tow truck won't fit under most parkade height bars.
- Photograph the clearance sign at the entrance.
- Note the level, stall number and how the car is parked.
- Arrange fob, gate code or concierge access for the driver.
- Many parkade no-starts only need a boost in the stall.
By Zip Towing Bridgeport BC · Published November 1, 2026
How does Bridgeport parkade towing work?
Bridgeport parkade towing is a two-part job. First the car comes up out of the garage, using a low-profile truck or wheel dollies; then it's loaded onto a flatbed at street level and taken where you choose. It's one of the trickier situations in how Bridgeport towing works, and it's the core of our underground towing service.
A standard tow truck simply won't fit. As the Wikipedia article on parking structures notes, these garages often have low ceiling clearances, typically 2.18 metres, which keep out full-size vans and other large vehicles. Hotel and casino parkades near Bridgeport can be closer to 2 metres. That's why Zip Towing's Bridgeport service asks about the garage before a truck is sent.
What should you check before calling for a parkade tow?
We recomend taking a photo of the clearance sign or height bar at the entrance, because that number decides which equipment comes. Then note the details below, which our article on what to tell the dispatcher covers in more depth. A good description also keeps towing fees predictable, since there are fewer surprises on site.
- The posted clearance at the entrance.
- Level and stall number, usually painted on a pillar.
- Whether the car is parked nose in or reversed in.
- Ramp shape: straight, curved or spiral.
- Access: fob, gate code, concierge or valet desk.
- Drivetrain: AWD, EV or two-wheel drive.
How does a car get out of a low-clearance garage?
Under a low bar, a low-profile truck can drive to the car, lift it and bring it up the ramp at walking speed. Where pillars, other cars or a tight turn are in the way, wheel dollies go under the tires so the car can be rolled sideways into the aisle first. At street level, the car moves onto a flatbed tow for the trip.
EVs and AWD cars need extra care, because their wheels shouldn't be dragged. Tesla's Model 3 owner's manual says that if Tow Mode isn't available or the touchscreen can't be used, self-loading dollies or tire skates must be used. Our guide to Bridgeport EV towing explains Tow Mode, and the difference on a tight ramp is noticable.
Does every parkade call need a tow?
No. Many cars stuck underground just won't start after sitting. A battery boost can often be done right in the stall, and a car lockout service opens the door without moving anything. A flat on a lower level can sometimes be fixed where the car sits with a mobile tire change, as long as there's room around the wheel. Tell the dispatcher what the car did when you tried to start it, and you may avoid a tow altogether.
If it does need to move, run through our tow truck checklist before the driver arrives: keys and fob out, valuables removed, and the drop-off address ready. Hotel guests should check with the front desk or valet first; our page on towing from the River Rock lot covers that garage.
Who needs to know in a condo or hotel parkade?
In a strata building, the truck needs a way in and a clear route out. Arrange for a fob, gate code or concierge to meet the driver, and let building management know if the car is blocking a shared aisle. It's truely easier when someone meets the truck at the gate. Zip Towing confirms the price on the phone before we hook up, and if the garage turns out lower or tighter than described, the driver tells you before doing extra work. See all our towing services for other jobs.
Parkades on River Drive and around the River Rock Casino Resort
You'll find low garages under the condo towers along River Drive and in the hotel and casino parkades off Great Canadian Way. Condo parkades on River Drive usually need a fob, the level and the stall number; see underground towing on River Drive for that part of the neighbourhood. If you can't find the clearance number, a quick photo of the height bar or the ramp entrance is all the driver needs to plan the job before leaving the yard.
Zip Towing is a local company on Bridgeport Rd, working 24 hours. If a car stalls on the ramp, call or message us with the level and the clearance, or read more local guides on the Zip Towing blog.
Questions drivers ask
What clearance does a parkade tow need?
It depends on the equipment. Tell us the posted clearance at the entrance, and we bring a low-profile truck or dollies to suit it.
Can an AWD car or EV be towed out of a parkade?
Yes. Dollies or tire skates keep the wheels from being dragged, and a flatbed takes the car from street level.
Do I need to be there for a parkade tow?
It's best, since the driver needs access and the keys. If you can't be, arrange for a concierge or building manager to let the truck in.
Will a parkade tow cost more?
It can, because it takes more time and gear. Zip Towing confirms the price on the phone before we hook up.