Abandoned Vehicles: Edison vs New Brunswick
How do abandoned vehicles rules compare between Edison, NJ and New Brunswick, NJ?
Edison and New Brunswick have similar restriction levels.
Edison, NJ
Middlesex County
Abandoned vehicles in Edison Township are handled under Chapter 7 (Traffic) and state law at N.J.S.A. 39:4-56.5 et seq. Vehicles left on public streets and appearing to be abandoned, junked or unregistered for more than the statutory window may be tagged and towed by Edison Police, with the owner liable for towing, storage and any abandonment-related fines.
View full Edison rules βNew Brunswick, NJ
Middlesex County
Abandoned vehicles in New Brunswick are regulated under N.J.S.A. 39:10A and the city's nuisance code. Vehicles on public streets without current registration may be cited and towed.
View full New Brunswick rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Edison | New Brunswick |
|---|---|---|
| Local Code | Edison Code Chapter 7 (Traffic) | New Brunswick Municipal Code |
| State Law | N.J.S.A. 39:4-56.5 (abandoned vehicles) | N.J.S.A. 39:10A |
| Tagging Window | 48-72 hours before tow (state procedure) | - |
| Junked Vehicles on Lots | Chapter 37 Zoning nuisance rule | - |
| Reporting | Edison Police non-emergency dispatch | New Brunswick Code Enforcement |
| Disposal | N.J.S.A. 39:10A (unclaimed vehicles) | - |
| Process | - | Notice, then tow after statutory period |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Edison FAQ
How do I report an abandoned vehicle in Edison?
Call the Edison Township Police non-emergency line. An officer will inspect the vehicle, tag it for the statutory window (typically 48-72 hours) under N.J.S.A. 39:4-56.5, attempt to notify the owner, and arrange tow if the vehicle is not removed.
How long can a car sit on the street in Edison?
A vehicle that appears abandoned (flat tires, expired registration, accumulated debris) and remains unmoved beyond the statutory tagging window can be removed under N.J.S.A. 39:4-56.5 and Chapter 7. Otherwise, ordinary parked vehicles are subject to any signed overnight or time-limit restrictions on the street.
Can I keep an inoperable car in my Edison driveway?
No. Storing junked or inoperable vehicles outdoors in a residential zone is a Chapter 37 zoning and property-maintenance violation. Vehicles must be operable, currently registered or stored inside a fully enclosed structure (garage).
New Brunswick FAQ
How long can a car sit on the street without moving?
In New Brunswick, vehicles typically cannot remain parked in the same spot on a public street for more than 72 hours.
Can I keep an inoperable car in my driveway?
Generally no if visible from the street. In New Brunswick, inoperable vehicles must be in an enclosed garage or screened from view.
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