Abandoned Vehicles: Austin vs Nashville
How do abandoned vehicles rules compare between Austin, TX and Nashville, TN?
Austin and Nashville have similar restriction levels.
Austin, TX
Travis County
Austin enforces Texas Transportation Code Chapter 683 and Austin City Code Chapter 12-5: a vehicle on public right-of-way is abandoned if inoperable for more than 48 hours or operable but apparently abandoned for more than 7 days. APD posts a warning tag and tows. Junked vehicles on private property are abated under Austin Code Chapter 9-2 as a nuisance with a 10-day notice.
View full Austin rules →Nashville, TN
Davidson County
Metro Code §12.40.120 allows removal of vehicles parked on public streets over 72 hours. Inoperable vehicles on private property must be enclosed or screened under §17.12.080. TN §55-16-104 governs abandoned vehicle towing.
View full Nashville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Austin | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Street Limit | - | 72 hours (§12.40.120) |
| Private Property | - | §17.12.080 screening |
| State Framework | - | TN §55-16-104 |
| Reporting | - | hubNashville / 311 |
| Tow Cost | - | $150-$300 + storage |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Austin FAQ
How do I report an abandoned vehicle in Austin?
Use the Austin 311 app, website, or call 311. APD Vehicle Abatement will tag the vehicle and follow up after 48 hours (inoperable) or 7 days (operable).
Is my own car safe if I park it long-term on the street?
Operable vehicles get up to 7 days. Inoperable cars (flat tires, missing plates, expired registration) can be tagged after just 48 hours. Keep tags current and move it weekly.
How do I get my car back after an Austin tow?
Call APD Auto Pound at (512) 974-8119 to find the lot, bring photo ID and proof of ownership, and pay tow plus daily storage fees before release.
Nashville FAQ
Who enforces abandoned vehicles rules in Davidson County?
Davidson County's code enforcement division is responsible for parking ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Davidson County government website or by calling the main municipal line.
What are typical penalties for violating abandoned vehicles rules?
Most Davidson County parking violations start with a written warning followed by escalating civil fines for repeat offenses. Specific dollar amounts and any criminal-misdemeanor exposure depend on the section of code; consult Davidson County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.
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