Bernalillo County Code §30 and Albuquerque §8-5-2-6 define abandoned vehicles as those left on public right-of-way for 72+ hours or inoperable vehicles stored visibly on private property. NM Abandoned Vehicle Act NMSA §66-3-1001 et seq. governs title processing for towed vehicles.
Within the City of Albuquerque, a vehicle left on a public street for more than 72 continuous hours, or any inoperable, wrecked, or unregistered vehicle stored in public view on private residential property, is deemed abandoned under Albuquerque §8-5-2-6 and the Nuisance Abatement Ordinance. Bernalillo County Code (Chapter 30, Abandoned Vehicles) applies the same framework in unincorporated areas, enforced by the Sheriff and the County's Zoning Enforcement division. Vehicles must display current NM registration, have inflated tires, be operable under their own power, and have all major components. On private property, inoperable vehicles must be stored inside a fully enclosed garage or behind an opaque fence at least 6 feet tall, screened from street view. The NM Abandoned Vehicle Act NMSA §66-3-1001 through §66-3-1007 governs post-tow lien sales, requiring certified notice to the last registered owner and a minimum 30-day hold before auction.
A red abandoned-vehicle tag is placed giving 72 hours to move. Failure to move results in tow at owner expense: ABQ contractor tow fees run $150-$300 plus $25-$35 daily storage. Private-property nuisance violations can add $100-$500 fines plus daily penalties until abated.
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