Abandoned Vehicles: Charlotte vs Matthews
How do abandoned vehicles rules compare between Charlotte, NC and Matthews, NC?
Matthews has fewer restrictions than Charlotte.
Charlotte, NC
Mecklenburg County
Abandoned vehicles on public or private property in Mecklenburg County are regulated by NCGS 20-137.6 through 20-137.14 and Charlotte City Code Chapter 14. Vehicles unattended over 7 days on public street or without valid registration may be towed.
View full Charlotte rules βMatthews, NC
Mecklenburg County
Matthews enforces NCGS 20-137.7 and 160A-303 for abandoned vehicles. Vehicles left on public streets over 7 days or on private property without owner consent over 24 hours may be tagged, towed, and sold at auction.
View full Matthews rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Charlotte | Matthews |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | NCGS 20-137.6 et seq | - |
| Street Threshold | 7 days | - |
| Private Threshold | 30 days | - |
| Tow Fee | 175 to 250 dollars | - |
| Storage | 25 dollars per day | - |
| Public streets | - | 7 days triggers abandoned |
| Private property | - | 24 hours without consent |
| Notice | - | 10 days before tow |
| Redemption | - | 30 days post-tow |
| Statute | - | NCGS 160A-303, 20-137.7 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Charlotte FAQ
Can I store a non-running car in my yard?
Only if covered or inside a garage per Charlotte UDO 12.516; otherwise it is treated as a junk vehicle.
Who enforces this in Mecklenburg County?
Mecklenburg County at (704) 336-7600 handles most complaints.
Matthews FAQ
Who enforces this in Matthews?
Matthews at (704) 847-4411 handles most complaints.
Who enforces this in Matthews?
Matthews at (704) 847-4411 handles most complaints.
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