Downey, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- DMC - Abandoned Vehicles/Nuisances
- Public Street
- 72-hour limit
- Private Property
- Must be in enclosed garage
- Authority
- City Manager orders removal
- Code Enforcement
- (562) 904-7153
Summary
Downey Municipal Code declares the accumulation and storage of abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles on private or public property a public nuisance subject to abatement and removal by the City Manager.
22651. A peace officer, as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code, or a regularly employed and salaried employee who is engaged in directing traffic or enforcing parking laws and regulations of a city, county, or jurisdiction of a state agency in which a vehicle is located may remove a vehicle located within the territorial limits in which the officer or employee may act, under the following circumstances: (a) If a vehicle is left unattended upon a bridge, viaduct, or causeway or in a tube or tunnel where the vehicle constitutes an obstruction to traffic. (b) If a vehicle is parked or left standing upon a highway in a position so as to obs
Full Breakdown
Downey Municipal Code declares the accumulation and storage of abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles on private or public property to be a public nuisance. Upon discovering such a vehicle, the City Manager has the authority to cause its abatement and removal. On public streets, vehicles parked for more than 72 consecutive hours may be cited and towed. On private property, inoperable vehicles with flat tires, missing parts, or expired registration must be stored in an enclosed garage and not visible from the public way. The city actively enforces abandoned vehicle provisions through code enforcement.
Violations & Fines
Abandoned vehicles on public property are subject to towing after 72 hours. Property owners may be charged for abatement and removal costs. Administrative citations and fines apply for non-compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Downey
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