Abandoned Vehicles: Lompoc vs Santa Maria
How do abandoned vehicles rules compare between Lompoc, CA and Santa Maria, CA?
Lompoc and Santa Maria have similar restriction levels.
Lompoc, CA
Santa Barbara County
California Vehicle Code sections 22651 and 22669 set uniform rules allowing peace officers and authorized agents to remove abandoned vehicles from public and private property after defined waiting periods, with statewide notice and lien procedures.
View full Lompoc rules →Santa Maria, CA
Santa Barbara County
California Vehicle Code sections 22651 and 22669 set uniform rules allowing peace officers and authorized agents to remove abandoned vehicles from public and private property after defined waiting periods, with statewide notice and lien procedures.
View full Santa Maria rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lompoc | Santa Maria |
|---|---|---|
| Primary statute | Vehicle Code 22669 | Vehicle Code 22669 |
| Abandonment offense | Vehicle Code 22523 | Vehicle Code 22523 |
| Minimum fine | $250 plus costs | $250 plus costs |
| Trust fund fee | VC 9250.7 | VC 9250.7 |
| Hearing rights | VC 22852 post-storage | VC 22852 post-storage |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lompoc FAQ
When is a vehicle considered abandoned in California?
Vehicle Code 22523 defines abandonment as leaving a vehicle on a highway or public or private property without consent. Officers may presume abandonment after 72 hours on a public street under Vehicle Code 22651(k).
Can a city extend the 72-hour rule?
No. Vehicle Code 21 preempts most local vehicle regulation. Cities must follow the statewide notice, tow, and hearing framework, though they may adopt the Abandoned Vehicle Abatement program for added funding.
Santa Maria FAQ
When is a vehicle considered abandoned in California?
Vehicle Code 22523 defines abandonment as leaving a vehicle on a highway or public or private property without consent. Officers may presume abandonment after 72 hours on a public street under Vehicle Code 22651(k).
Can a city extend the 72-hour rule?
No. Vehicle Code 21 preempts most local vehicle regulation. Cities must follow the statewide notice, tow, and hearing framework, though they may adopt the Abandoned Vehicle Abatement program for added funding.
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