Costa Mesa defines abandoned vehicles as those left on public streets for more than 72 hours without being moved or those that are inoperable. The city proactively tags and removes abandoned vehicles through Costa Mesa Police and Code Enforcement.
Under California Vehicle Code Section 22651 and CMMC parking provisions, vehicles left on public streets for more than 72 consecutive hours without being moved are considered abandoned. Inoperable vehicles (flat tires, expired registration, non-running condition) on private property visible from public view also violate city code. Costa Mesa Police and Code Enforcement tag suspected abandoned vehicles with a 72-hour notice. If the vehicle is not moved within 72 hours, it may be towed and stored at the owner's expense. Tow and storage fees accrue daily. Vehicles on private property that are inoperable or unregistered must be stored in an enclosed garage or removed. Costa Mesa actively patrols for abandoned vehicles as part of neighborhood preservation. Report abandoned vehicles to Code Enforcement at (714) 754-5623 or Costa Mesa PD at (714) 754-5280.
Abandoned vehicles on public streets are tagged with 72-hour notice and towed if not moved. Inoperable vehicles on private property visible from public view may receive code enforcement citations and abatement orders.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
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See how Costa Mesa's abandoned vehicles rules stack up against other locations.
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