Des Moines, IA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Covers
- Unlicensed, unsafe, or inoperable vehicle/boat
- Where prohibited
- Outside an enclosed building
- Governing section
- Des Moines Municipal Code § 42-348(9)
- Penalty
- Municipal infraction, civil penalty, § 42-364
- Habitual violator
- 3+ violations in 36 months
Summary
Des Moines treats any unlicensed, unsafe, or inoperable vehicle, trailer, or boat left outside an enclosed building on public or private property as a specifically identified nuisance, triggering abatement notice and civil penalties.
Any motor vehicle, trailer or boat that is unlicensed, unsafe or inoperable found upon public or private real property, and the contents therein, which is not stored within an enclosed building. This article shall not apply to legitimate businesses operating in a lawful place and manner provided, however, that such outside areas are screened from public view and do not constitute a threat to the public health, safety or welfare.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 38 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 42-348(9) names an unlicensed, unsafe or inoperable motor vehicle, trailer or boat left on public or private property, and not stored inside an enclosed building, a nuisance. A department can issue a notice to abate under § 42-358; if the owner doesn't correct it, the city may abate the nuisance itself under § 42-351 and assess removal costs against the property like a property tax, or pursue a municipal infraction. Three or more violations at one address within 36 months makes the owner a habitual violator under § 42-354.
Violations & Fines
Violating this article is a municipal infraction punishable by civil penalty under § 1-15 (§ 42-364). The city may also abate the nuisance directly and assess the abatement cost as a lien collected like a property tax, or seek an injunction against a habitual violator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep an unregistered car in my driveway in Des Moines?
What happens if the city flags a junk vehicle on my property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Des Moines
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