Abandoned Vehicles: Newton vs Wakefield
How do abandoned vehicles rules compare between Newton, MA and Wakefield, MA?
Newton has fewer restrictions than Wakefield.
Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Under MGL c.90 s.22D, Newton can tow vehicles left on public ways for more than 72 hours. Unregistered or inoperable vehicles on private property must be stored indoors or screened.
View full Newton rules →Wakefield, MA
Middlesex County
Abandoned vehicles are governed by MGL c.90 s.22D. Police may tow any vehicle left on a public way for 72 hours or more without authorization.
View full Wakefield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Newton | Wakefield |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | MGL c.90 s.22D | - |
| Street Time Limit | 72 hours | - |
| Tow Fee | Around $150 | - |
| Storage/Day | Around $35 | - |
| Auction Window | 14 days | - |
| Governing Law | - | MGL c.90 s.22D |
| Public Way Threshold | - | 72 continuous hours |
| Private Property | - | 72 hours without consent |
| Disposal Wait | - | 30 days after notice |
| Reporting | - | Local police non-emergency |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Newton FAQ
Can I store a project car on my driveway?
Unregistered or inoperable vehicles must be kept inside a garage or fully screened from public view. Newton will cite visible junk vehicles as a nuisance violation.
How do I report an abandoned vehicle?
Contact Newton Police parking enforcement or call 311. Note the location, license plate if present, make/model, and how long the vehicle has been stationary.
Wakefield FAQ
How do I report an abandoned car on my street?
Call your local police non-emergency line. Provide the license plate, location, and how long the vehicle has been parked. Officers will tag and eventually tow under MGL c.90 s.22D.
Can I tow an abandoned car from my driveway?
Yes, but you must follow MGL c.90 s.22D procedures. Most owners call police first to document the abandonment before arranging a tow.
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