Abandoned vehicles
Local borough/district councils can investigate vehicles, where there are justifiable reasons to consider that they may have been abandoned and remove any vehicles, that prove to be abandoned, when it is evident that the keeper has no intention of returning. This includes trailers and caravans.
What does 'abandoned' mean?
A vehicle may be abandoned if:
- It has no keeper on the DVLA's database;
- It is not taxed;
- It has not been moved for a significant amount of time.
- It is significantly damaged, run down or not in a roadworthy condition i.e. flat tyres, wheels removed or broken windows.
- It is burned out.
- It has number plates missing.
A vehicle is not classed as 'abandoned' simply because it has been parked in the same place for a few days.
How do I find out if a vehicle is taxed?
You can check this online. You'll need:
- The make of the vehicle.
- The vehicle registration mark (number plate) of the vehicle.
Check if a vehicle is taxed
Reporting an abandoned vehicle
If you would like to report an abandoned vehicle, you must report it to the relevant district or borough council.
Please note: Vehicles should not be reported as abandoned to resolve a neighbourhood dispute.
Please select the links below to go to the relevant reporting page:
Please note: If a vehicle is parked in a dangerous position and/or causing an obstruction, burnt out or is thought to have been involved in crime, this should be reported to the police, via the non-emergency contact number 101.