Report an abandoned vehicle
If you suspect a vehicle has been abandoned, first check to see if it has road tax and valid MOT by entering the registration number and make of vehicle on gov.uk (opens new window).
What is an abandoned vehicle?
We consider several issues to decide whether or not the vehicle can be classed as abandoned and it is likely that at least some of the following will apply:
- has no registered keeper on the DVLA's database and or is untaxed, without MOT or subject of a Statutory Off Road Notice
- has been stationary for a significant amount of time
- is burnt out
- is significantly damaged, run down, hazardous or unroadworthy, for example, has flat tyres, missing wheels and or broken windows or other hazards
- number plates are missing
What happens after you report an abandoned vehicle to us
- we will try to contact the owner/registered keeper, if known
- we may leave a notice on the vehicle, warning it will be removed if no one claims it
- in certain circumstances, we may remove it without notice
- vehicles removed will either be stored for a short time before being sold and destroyed, or some vehicles may go straight for destruction (if found in a poor state of repair, burnt out, no keeper etc)
- owners/keepers of abandoned vehicles will be issued a Fixed Penalty Notice and will be liable for all costs incurred in removal, storage, etc.
How to report an abandoned vehicle
- if the vehicle is on a public highway which is untaxed, with no other issues - report on gov.uk (opens new window)
- if the vehicle is on a public highway and is registered as being subject of a Statutory Off Road Notice (SORN), with no other issues - report on gov.uk (opens new window)
- if the is vehicle on the public highway, with a number of listed issues or vehicle on open land - includes GBC Housing land and private land or private roads, that are accessible and open to the public - report via our online form (opens new window)
- vehicle is blocking a public road or footpath - report to the police on 101
- vehicle is on fire or being vandalised - report to the police on 999
Make sure you know the location of the car, the street name and postcode, and how long it has been there for. You will need the vehicle's make, model, colour and registration number. You can add a photo of the vehicle to the form.