Permitting, Environment and Regulatory Affairs

Abandoned Vehicles

Non-functioning vehicles cannot be stored on the right-of-way. When an abandoned vehicle is found on the right-of-way, a five (5) day warning notice for removal will be posted on the vehicle. Under Chapter 19-12(B), the fine for an abandoned vehicle located on the right-of-way is $500.

Unless the property owner rectifies the condition of a non-functioning vehicle so that it is functional, the vehicle cannot be moved from the right-of-way onto private property.

Neighborhood Compliance Officers consider various criteria when determining whether a vehicle is legally considered abandoned. They look for, but are not limited to, the following factors:

• Is the nominal value of the vehicle more than $250?
• Does the car have a current license tag?
• Are any of the tires flat?
• Is there overgrowth about the vehicle?
• Are any of the windows broken?
• Does the vehicle have any evidence of being in a collision?
• Is there junk and trash inside the vehicle?
• Can the vehicle perform its intended function?

If the vehicle does not have a current license tag, it does not necessarily mean that it is an abandoned vehicle. If the vehicle is intact and can perform its intended function, it is not an abandoned vehicle. However, the property owner can be issued a parking ticket if the vehicle is parked on the right-of-way without a current tag.

Under Chapter 19-13(A), the fine for an abandoned vehicle on private property is $250.00.  If the fine is not paid, it can accumulate penalties up to twenty (20) times its base amount.

To remove a non-functioning vehicle you can contact one of many private-towing companies that will pay you a nominal amount for your vehicle. This will correct the violation and you can earn some extra money.