It is illegal to leave an abandoned or inoperable vehicle on public property in unincorporated Boulder County. A vehicle sitting over 72 hours qualifies as abandoned and, after notice, can be ticketed and towed.
Ordinance 2024-1 Section III.9 prohibits parking an abandoned vehicle or inoperable motor vehicle on public property. An 'Inoperable Motor Vehicle' includes any vehicle lacking a current plate and validation sticker, wrecked or dismantled, or unable to move safely under its own power. Where an abandoned/inoperable vehicle is the only basis for removal, the Sheriff's Office must make reasonable efforts to notify the owner and grant 72 hours to move it before towing. This county rule supplements Colorado state law, which flatly provides that no person shall abandon any motor vehicle upon public property (CRS 42-4-1803).
Civil infraction: $15 first, $30 second, $60 third offense, plus $10 surcharge; vehicle may be towed and stored at the owner's sole cost after the 72-hour notice period.
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