Abandoned Vehicles: Los Angeles vs Santa Monica
How do abandoned vehicles rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Santa Monica has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles tows vehicles left on any public street for over 72 consecutive hours under LAMC 80.73.2 and California Vehicle Code 22651(k). Vehicles also qualify as abandoned if registration is expired over six months (CVC 22651(o)) or if visibly inoperable. LADOT issues a 72-hour warning notice; unmoved vehicles are towed and held subject to a lien sale.
View full Los Angeles rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Under California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k) and Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 3.12, vehicles parked on public streets for 72 or more consecutive hours are considered abandoned and subject to citation and towing. Temporary No Parking signs require 24–72 hours advance posting.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Time Limit | - | 72 consecutive hours |
| Inoperable | - | Immediate tow eligible |
| TNP Signs | - | 24–72 hr advance posting |
| Code | - | CVC §22651(k), SMMC Ch. 3.12 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
How do I report an abandoned vehicle in LA?
File via the MyLA311 app or call 311. LADOT Parking Enforcement responds, posts a 72-hour warning, then tows under LAMC 80.73.2 / CVC 22651(k) if unmoved.
Is my own car safe if I leave it parked on my street?
Move it at least once every 72 hours and keep registration current. Vehicles that sit longer or have expired tags over 6 months can be tagged and towed under CVC 22651(o).
How do I retrieve a towed vehicle?
Call LAPD Official Police Garage line (213-485-2121) with your plate, bring photo ID, current registration, and pay all tow and storage fees before release.
Santa Monica FAQ
How long can a car stay parked on the street in Santa Monica?
Up to 72 consecutive hours under state law, unless posted signs indicate a shorter limit. After 72 hours, the vehicle may be cited and towed.
How do I report an abandoned vehicle in Santa Monica?
Contact the City's Parking Operations division or use the Santa Monica 311 reporting system. The vehicle will be marked and given 72-hour notice before towing.
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