Where and how to return your rental car at Burbank Airport
Burbank Airport (BUR) has a consolidated rental car return facility located off-airport, about two miles from the terminals. When you rent a car, your contract will specify which return location to use — some companies operate their own lots, while others use the shared facility. You'll drive to the address on your rental agreement, park in the designated return area, turn in your keys, and either take a shuttle back to the terminal or arrange your own transportation.
The return process itself takes 10 to 20 minutes if there's no damage dispute. The rental agent will inspect the car for dents, scratches, and fuel level, compare it to the condition noted at pickup, and print your final receipt. If you rented through a major company like Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, or Avis, they all operate return locations near Burbank, though the exact address depends on which company you booked with.
Key Takeaways
- Burbank Airport rental returns happen at an off-airport facility about two miles away, not at the terminals themselves.
- Your rental agreement lists the exact return address and instructions for your specific company.
- Return the car with a full tank of fuel unless your contract specifies otherwise, because rental companies charge high per-gallon rates for refueling.
- Inspect the car for damage before you leave the lot, and ask the agent to note any existing damage on your receipt so you're not charged later.
- Most rental companies offer a free shuttle from the return lot back to the airport terminal.
Finding your rental company's return location
Your rental agreement or confirmation email contains the return address. If you've lost it, call the rental company's customer service line — they can tell you the exact location and hours for your reservation. Major companies at Burbank include Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, Avis, National, and Alamo, and each operates its own return facility or uses a shared lot.
When you arrive at the return location, follow the signs for "Returns" or "Car Return." The lot is designed so you drive in, park in a marked return space, and an agent comes to meet you. Do not leave the car unattended or park in a regular lot — the return area is monitored and the agent needs to inspect the vehicle before you leave.
Fuel requirements and what happens if you return it empty
Your contract specifies the fuel policy. Most rentals require you to return the car with a full tank. If you don't, the rental company will refuel it and charge you for the gas plus a service fee — this cost is often $6 to $10 per gallon, much higher than what you'd pay at a gas station. Some contracts offer a "pre-purchase" option where you pay for a full tank upfront; in that case, you can return it empty, but you lose any unused fuel.
Before you head to the return lot, check your fuel gauge. If you're running low, fill up at a gas station near the airport — it's always cheaper than the rental company's rate. Keep your receipt if you want to dispute a fuel charge later.
Damage inspection and what to do if you disagree
The agent will walk around the car and note any new damage. Compare their notes to the condition report you signed at pickup. If the agent marks damage you didn't cause, speak up when ready and ask them to remove it from the report. Get a copy of the final inspection sheet before you leave the lot — this is your proof of what condition the car was in when you returned it.
If you disagree with a damage charge that appears on your bill days or weeks later, contact the rental company's customer service department with your photos from pickup and your final inspection receipt. Many companies will reverse charges if you can show the damage was pre-existing or if the charge seems inflated.
Shuttle service back to the terminal
All major rental companies at Burbank offer a free shuttle from the return lot to the airport terminal. Ask the agent where the shuttle stop is — it's usually near the return office. Shuttles run frequently during business hours, typically every 10 to 15 minutes, though wait times can be longer during peak travel times.
If you prefer not to wait for the shuttle, you can arrange your own ride through a rideshare app, taxi, or have someone pick you up. The return lot address is on your rental agreement, so you can share it with whoever is picking you up.
What to do if you're returning the car after hours
If your flight arrives late or you're returning the car outside normal business hours, check your rental agreement for after-hours procedures. Some companies have a night drop box where you can leave the keys and a signed form in a find location. Others require you to call a phone number to notify them that the car has been returned.
Using a night drop box means the car won't be inspected until the next business day, so take photos of the odometer, fuel gauge, and overall condition before you drop it off. Email these photos to the rental company with the date and time, so you have a record if a damage charge appears later. Keep your keys and the drop box receipt.
Common issues at return and how to avoid them
The most common problem is being charged for damage you didn't cause. Prevent this by photographing the car inside and out at pickup, keeping those photos, and comparing them to the final inspection. The second most common issue is fuel charges — fill up before you return, and keep the receipt.
Another frequent dispute involves mileage overages. Your contract specifies your mileage allowance; if you exceed it, you'll be charged per mile. Check your odometer reading at pickup and keep track of your driving. If the final mileage seems wrong, ask the agent to verify it before you leave.
Late returns can trigger extra daily charges, sometimes at a higher rate than your original daily rate. If your flight is delayed, call the rental company as soon as you know you'll be late — some will extend your return time without penalty, especially if you booked through their website or app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to return the car to the same location where I picked it up?
Not necessarily. Many rental companies allow one-way rentals, where you pick up at one location and return at another. Your contract will specify whether your reservation is one-way or round-trip. If you booked a round-trip rental, you must return to the original location or you may be charged a relocation fee.
What if I damage the car after I've already returned it?
Once you've signed the final inspection sheet and left the lot, the rental company owns any new damage. However, if damage appears on your bill weeks later and you have photos from return showing the car was undamaged, contact the company's dispute department with your evidence. They may reverse the charge if you can prove the damage occurred after return.
Can I return the car to a different rental company's location?
No. You must return the car to the company you rented from. Each company operates its own lot or uses a specific shared facility. Returning to the wrong company's location will not process your return, and you may be charged for an unreturned vehicle.
What happens if I lose the keys?
Tell the agent when ready at return. You'll be charged a key replacement fee, typically $150 to $300 depending on the car model and company. The agent will document this on your final receipt. If you lose the keys after you've left the lot, call the rental company right away — the sooner you report it, the sooner they can arrange a replacement and the less likely you'll face additional charges.
Is there a grace period if I'm a few minutes late returning the car?
Most rental companies charge by the day, so returning 30 minutes late usually means paying for another full day. Some companies offer a small grace period (15 to 30 minutes), but this varies. Check your contract or call ahead if you think you'll be late — it's worth asking whether they can hold your reservation or waive the extra day charge.