Abandoned Vehicles: Somerville vs Wakefield
How do abandoned vehicles rules compare between Somerville, MA and Wakefield, MA?
Somerville has fewer restrictions than Wakefield.
Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Under MGL c.90 s.22D and city rules, Somerville can tow vehicles left unmoved more than 72 hours, or any unregistered or uninspected vehicle.
View full Somerville 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 | Somerville | Wakefield |
|---|---|---|
| State law | MGL c.90 s.22D | - |
| Time trigger | 72 hours unmoved | - |
| Unregistered | Immediate tow eligible | - |
| Private property | Trespass tow procedure | - |
| Unclaimed auction | After 45 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.
Somerville FAQ
How do I report an abandoned car on my street?
Call Somerville 311 or the Police non-emergency line with the plate, color, and last-seen date. Parking Control will tag the vehicle and tow it if it is not moved.
Can I tow a car off my private driveway?
Yes, through a trespass tow arranged with a licensed tow operator. You must post notice and follow state tow rules. Police will sign off if the vehicle is unregistered.
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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