Altadena, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- LA County Code Ch. 15.36
- Notice Period
- 10 days
- Public Street Tow
- After 72 hours (CVC 22651(k))
Summary
LA County Code Chapter 15.36 (Abandoned Vehicle Abatement) authorizes the county to remove inoperative or abandoned vehicles from private or public property after notice. Funded by the AVA fee on vehicle registration.
22651. A peace officer, as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code, or a regularly employed and salaried employee who is engaged in directing traffic or enforcing parking laws and regulations of a city, county, or jurisdiction of a state agency in which a vehicle is located may remove a vehicle located within the territorial limits in which the officer or employee may act, under the following circumstances: (a) If a vehicle is left unattended upon a bridge, viaduct, or causeway or in a tube or tunnel where the vehicle constitutes an obstruction to traffic. (b) If a vehicle is parked or left standing upon a highway in a position so as to obstruct the normal movement of traffic or in a condition so as to create a hazard to other traffic upo
Full Breakdown
Chapter 15.36 of LA County Code declares as a public nuisance any abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicle on private property (visible from the street) or on public roads. The County may post a 10-day notice; if unresolved, the vehicle is towed and the owner billed. California Vehicle Code 22651(k) also allows a 72-hour tow from public streets. Enforcement is by the LA County Sheriff's Department and Department of Public Works.
Violations & Fines
Towing and storage charges (often $300+), plus an administrative abatement fee. Owner can dispute at a hearing under Ch. 15.36.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report an abandoned car in Altadena?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Altadena
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Abandoned Vehicles in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle abandoned vehicles.