Abandoned vehicles

If you identify an abandoned vehicle, please report it to us as soon as possible.

Under Section 3 of the Refuse Disposal (Amenity) Act 1978, we are obliged to remove a vehicle which is abandoned on public land within the district. It does not cover vehicles abandoned on private land.

Under this Act, abandoning a vehicle is a criminal offence, carrying either a large fine, three months' imprisonment, or both.

How to identify an abandoned vehicle

• Is the vehicle untaxed?
• Are any of the tyres flat or have any of the wheels been removed?
• Is the windscreen or any of the windows broken?
• Is there any mould on either the inside or outside of the vehicle?
• Does the vehicle contain rubbish?
• Is there rubbish under the vehicle, indicating that it has not moved for some time?
• Does the vehicle have number plates?
• Has the vehicle been 'hot-wired ' (are there wires hanging from the dashboard)?
• Has the vehicle been vandalised?
• Is it a vehicle that you and your neighbours have never seen before and that no-one is claiming ownership of?

What to do if you identify an abandoned vehicle

• Never enter or touch an abandoned vehicle - it may have been used in a crime or pose a health and safety risk
• Never approach a burning vehicle or burnt out vehicle - materials may be harmful. If a vehicle is on fire call the fire service immediately. If already burnt out contact us
• Report it to us

An untaxed vehicle should be reported to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).