Abandoned Vehicles: San Jose vs Sunnyvale
How do abandoned vehicles rules compare between San Jose, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
San Jose and Sunnyvale have similar restriction levels.
San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
San Jose enforces a 72-hour street parking limit under San Jose Municipal Code 11.36 and tows under California Vehicle Code 22651(k). The Department of Transportation Abandoned Vehicle Abatement Program responds to 311 reports, marks tires, and tows unmoved vehicles. Inoperable vehicles on private property are regulated separately under SJMC 6.66 as a public nuisance with a 10-day notice period.
View full San Jose rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale enforces abandoned vehicle removal through SMC Title 10 and CVC 22651(k) and 22669. Vehicles left over 72 hours on public streets or inoperable on private property may be towed.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Jose | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Public street rule | - | 72 hours (CVC 22651(k)) |
| Private property | - | Must be enclosed if inoperable |
| Abatement program | - | Santa Clara County AVA |
| Reporting | - | Sunnyvale DPS non-emergency |
| Owner liability | - | Tow + storage + lien fees |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Jose FAQ
How do I report an abandoned vehicle in San Jose?
Use the My San Jose app or call 311. DOT Abandoned Vehicle Abatement marks tires and returns after 72 hours to verify the vehicle has not moved.
Can the city tow my car from my own driveway?
Not directly. Inoperable vehicles on private property are handled under SJMC 6.66 — Code Enforcement gives at least 10 days to repair, enclose, or remove before nuisance abatement.
How do I retrieve a towed vehicle?
Call DOT at (408) 535-3850 to locate the tow yard, bring photo ID and current registration, and pay all tow and storage fees before release.
Sunnyvale FAQ
How do I report an abandoned car on my street?
Call Sunnyvale DPS non-emergency or use the online reporting tool; officers will investigate within a few days.
Can I keep a non-running project car in my driveway?
Only if it is registered and not in a wrecked condition, or if it is stored inside a garage or fully enclosed area.
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