Berkeley, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

010 defines the three categories the chapter reaches: an 'abandoned vehicle' left stationary more than seventy-two hours on property that is neither open to public parking nor part of the public right-of-way, without the property owner's consent; an 'inoperative vehicle' that cannot be driven under its own power because of mechanical or structural defects; and a 'dismantled vehicle' missing a critical part, such as a wheel, windshield, door or transmission, for sixty days or more. 020 makes it unlawful both to park or store any such vehicle and to refuse to remove one after the City orders abatement.

030 exempts vehicles fully enclosed in a building out of public view, vehicles held by a licensed dealer, junkyard or dismantler, and vehicles carrying a DMV historic or special-interest plate under Vehicle Code Section 5004 if screened from view and not a health hazard. 040 starts with a Notice to Abate sent by certified mail giving the owner ten days to request a hearing or an extension; a hearing officer who is not a police employee decides contested cases, and removal follows fifteen days after an unopposed notice or thirty days after a hearing order. The City may enter with a municipal court warrant if the owner objects, and it must notify the DMV within five days of removal.