Denver defines abandoned vehicles as inoperable, unregistered, or parked over 72 hours per DRMC §54-127 and §54-811. Report to 311. On private property, must be enclosed or behind opaque screening.
Denver Revised Municipal Code §54-127 (72-hour rule) and §54-811 (abandonment) govern abandoned vehicles. On public streets, a vehicle unmoved for more than 72 hours may be tagged by Denver Police or Public Works Right-of-Way Enforcement; after the notice period the vehicle is towed. Vehicles with expired registration over 30 days, flat tires, broken windows, or obvious inoperability may be classified as junked and towed immediately under nuisance provisions. On private property visible from the public right-of-way, inoperable or unlicensed vehicles constitute a code violation under DRMC §27-129 (property maintenance) and must be stored inside a garage or behind a fence at least 6 feet tall that fully screens the vehicle. Reports go to Denver 311 (phone, app, or 311.denvergov.org). Tow and impound handled by Denver Sheriff Department Vehicle Impound Facility at 5160 York Street.
Abandoned on street: tow plus $50 fine, $150 impound fee, $25/day storage. Unscreened on private property: $150 to $999 notice of violation. Unlicensed operation: DMV penalties.
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