Abandoned vehicles

There is no legal definition of an 'abandoned vehicle' but the list below shows some of the criteria our inspectors consider.

• Abandoned bicycles
• Claiming an abandoned vehicle
• Surrendered vehicles
• Untaxed vehicle

Tax disc changes

Vehicles still need to be taxed to be on the public road. These details can be checked online using the GOV.UK Vehicle Enquiry tool.

Make an enquiry

Abandoned vehicles

It is for the Council to decide if a vehicle is abandoned. This is likely if one of the following applies:

• It has no keeper on DVLA's database and is untaxed - check vehicle tax online
• It's stationary for a significant amount of time
• It's significantly damaged, run down or unroadworthy, for example has flat tyres, missing wheels or broken windows
• It's burned out
• A number plate is missing

Report an abandoned vehicle

Report an abandoned vehicle

Please note that just because a vehicle is poorly parked or is not believed to belong to a resident of the road does not mean it is abandoned. Vehicles are no longer required to display a tax disc.

Claim a vehicle that has been deemed abandoned

To claim your vehicle that has been deemed abandoned, you need to provide evidence of ownership. Evidence must be produced within an agreed timescale or the vehicle will be removed to safe storage.

Report an abandoned bicycle or trolley

Report an abandoned bicycle

It is the responsibility of supermarkets and stores that provide trolleys for their customers to collect any stray trolleys. Please report these to the nearest appropriate store.

Dispose of a vehicle

We will remove and dispose of an unwanted vehicle free of charge as long as the vehicle is located in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and the owner is a resident in any of the 32 London boroughs.