Abandoned Vehicles: Hesperia vs San Bernardino
How do abandoned vehicles rules compare between Hesperia, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
San Bernardino has fewer restrictions than Hesperia.
Hesperia, CA
San Bernardino County
Hesperia Municipal Code Chapter 8.16 (Vehicle Abatement and Removal) declares abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles - or parts thereof - on public or private property a public nuisance subject to abatement, implementing California Vehicle Code §§22660-22669. The City separately treats 'Inoperable Vehicle' as a Code Enforcement violation, and the program is administered through the San Bernardino County Service Authority for Abandoned Vehicle Abatement.
View full Hesperia rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino uses CVC 22651(k) to tow vehicles left on public streets more than 72 hours. Abandoned vehicles on private property can be removed under CVC 22658 with owner authorization.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hesperia | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Local authority | Hesperia Municipal Code Ch. 8.16 - Vehicle Abatement and Removal | - |
| State authority | Cal. Veh. Code §§22660-22669 (AVA program) | - |
| Funding mechanism | San Bernardino County AVA service authority - $1 DMV registration surcharge (Veh. Code §22710) | - |
| Trigger | Abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicle or parts on public or private property | - |
| Common exception | Fully enclosed in a building or behind a solid 6-ft fence not visible from public view | - |
| 72-Hour Statute | - | CVC 22651(k) |
| Private Property Tow | - | CVC 22658 |
| Nuisance Abatement | - | CVC 22660 |
| Lien Sale | - | Civil Code 3068 after 30 days |
| Report Hotline | - | (909) 384-5742 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Hesperia FAQ
What counts as an 'inoperable' vehicle in Hesperia?
Typically a vehicle that cannot legally or mechanically be driven on the street - expired registration plus indicators like flat tires, missing wheels, broken windows, or a missing engine.
Can I keep a project car in my Hesperia yard?
Only if it is screened from public view - either fully inside a building or behind a six-foot solid fence/wall per the standard AVA exceptions. Otherwise it falls under HMC Ch. 8.16.
How do I report an abandoned vehicle in Hesperia?
Contact Hesperia Code Enforcement at (760) 947-1000 for vehicles on private property; San Bernardino County Sheriff Hesperia Station for vehicles on public streets.
San Bernardino FAQ
How do I report an abandoned vehicle on my San Bernardino street?
Call San Bernardino Police Parking Services at (909) 384-5742 or submit a report through the CityConnect app. Officers will chalk the tire and post a 72-hour warning; if the vehicle has not moved, it will be towed.
Can I tow a car parked without permission in my apartment lot?
Yes, under CVC 22658, with proper posted signage and a signed authorization to the contracted tow operator. The towing company must notify local police within one hour of the tow so the owner can locate the vehicle.
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