Abandoned vehicles

What happens after you report an abandoned vehicle

When we receive a report of an abandoned vehicle, an investigating officer will inspect the vehicle. The officer will consider a range of factors that may indicate if the vehicle has been abandoned and is therefore fit for removal and destruction. In some instances, we will continue to monitor the vehicle’s condition before deeming it abandoned.

Please note: The final decision as to whether a vehicle is deemed abandoned or not is with the investigating officer.

We won't normally remove a vehicle that is taxed and in reasonable condition, unless there is very strong evidence to suggest:

  • that it has not been in use for a lengthy period of time
  • has been left on the highway or on private land without permission of our highways team/the landowner

If an owner claims a vehicle, it can no longer be deemed abandoned.