Arizona state law (ARS 28-871) establishes a 72-hour threshold for abandoned vehicles on public highways. Maricopa County enforces abandoned vehicle removal through the Sheriff's Office. Vehicles left on public roads for more than 72 hours without moving may be tagged and towed.
Arizona state law (ARS 28-871) defines a vehicle parked on a public highway for more than 72 consecutive hours without being moved as presumptively abandoned. In unincorporated Maricopa County, the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) handles abandoned vehicle complaints. Deputies may tag a vehicle with a 48-hour warning notice; if the vehicle is not moved within 48 hours of tagging, MCSO arranges towing and impoundment. On private property, property owners may have unauthorized vehicles towed under Arizona's trespass towing statute (ARS 28-1904). Abandoned vehicles on private property that create a nuisance or blight condition may also be addressed through Maricopa County Ordinance P-11. Report abandoned vehicles to MCSO non-emergency at (602) 506-1000.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Maricopa County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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