Abandoned vehicles

There is no legal definition of an ‘abandoned vehicle’ but the list below shows some of the criteria our inspectors consider. A vehicle doesn't need all of these characteristics to be considered abandoned.

  • Whether taxed or not
  • Doors open/unlocked
  • Flat tyres/missing wheels
  • Windows open/broken
  • Burnt out
  • Rusty brake discs
  • Containing waste
  • Significant damage
  • Mould on the inside
  • Stationary for a significant time
  • Missing one or more plates
  • Location of vehicle
  • Details of vehicle held by DVLA
  • Status of land where vehicle is located

Just because a vehicle is displaying an expired tax disc, is poorly parked, or is not believed to belong to a resident in the road does not mean it is abandoned.

Details required to report an abandoned vehicle include:

  • The vehicle registration
  • Make, model, and colour
  • Whether the vehicle is taxed
  • The exact location of the vehicle (i.e. nearest house number or junction)

Report an abandoned vehicle

The Police, not the Council, have the power to immediately tow any vehicle left in a position causing a danger or an obstruction. To report a vehicle causing an obstruction or in a dangerous position call 101.

Inspections

Vehicles reported as abandoned will be inspected within one working day. If our inspector thinks the vehicle is abandoned a notice will be put on it giving the owner 24 hours or seven days to remove it or claim it. If the vehicle is not claimed, the vehicle will be re-inspected after the time on the notice has passed and can be towed if necessary.

Vehicles in a dangerous or very poor condition may be removed immediately and without prior notice.

Vehicles on private land can be inspected providing this is at the request of the person(s) responsible for/owner of the land where the vehicle is situated. There is an administration fee of £61.50 payable for the removal of any vehicle from private land.

Vehicles inspected and not considered abandoned will not normally be considered for re-inspection until they have been unused/unmoved for at least three months from the date of the original report.

Please do not abandon your vehicle, the Council runs a free vehicle disposal service.

Report other problems with a vehicle