Abandoned Vehicles: Cape Coral vs Fort Myers

Can Cape Coral tow my car from the street?

Yes, if it is unregistered, inoperable, or hasn't been moved in 72+ hours after being tagged. You'll be responsible for towing and daily storage fees.

Can I keep a non-running car on my property?

Inoperable vehicles must be stored inside an enclosed structure (garage, barn) and not visible from public areas. Visible junk vehicles face removal orders.

What counts as an abandoned vehicle in Fort Myers?

Per the City of Fort Myers Community Development Department, motor vehicles may not be abandoned, junked, or discarded on public or private property unless completely enclosed in a building or part of a properly licensed business operation. A vehicle is treated as abandoned or junked when it lacks a current license plate or registration, is inoperable, is not roadworthy (flat tires, dismantled, missing parts), or sits on the lawn or other unimproved surface. There is no minimum time threshold - the rule applies as soon as the criteria are met, and enforcement starts with a Notice of Violation from the Code Enforcement Division at 239-321-7940.

What happens if I ignore a Fort Myers abandoned vehicle notice?

Unresolved code violations in Fort Myers are referred to the Special Magistrate, who can impose escalating daily fines until the violation is corrected and can authorize the city to abate the violation - including removing and disposing of the vehicle - at the owner's expense. Unpaid abatement costs and fines can become a lien on the property. Vehicles that block a fire hydrant, fire lane, or driveway, or that are dangerously parked in the right-of-way, may be towed without the longer notice timeline.