Clark County, WA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Urban threshold
- Any inoperable vehicle, 30+ days
- Rural threshold
- 3+ inoperable vehicles, 30+ days
- Inoperable test
- Missing major part or won't move 100 ft
- State disposal law
- RCW 46.55.230
- Code
- CCC 9.24.010(1)(d)/(2)(d)
Summary
In unincorporated Clark County, three or more inoperable vehicles in a rural yard, or any inoperable vehicle in an urban yard, that sit 30+ days visible from the road are a public nuisance. Statewide, a certified junk vehicle can be inspected and disposed of under RCW 46.55.230.
The presence of any unattached vehicle or boat parts or abandoned or inoperable vehicles ... that: (i) Have remained in the same location ... for more than thirty (30) consecutive days; (ii) Are within the front, side or rear yard; that are visible from an adjacent property or roadway; and (iii) ... The vehicle is missing a major component ... or cannot be started and set into motion both forward and reverse for a distance of one hundred (100) feet.
Full Breakdown
CCC 9.24.010(1)(d)/(2)(d) declares a nuisance the presence of abandoned or inoperable vehicles (three or more in rural zones; any in urban zones) that have remained 'in the same location ... for more than thirty (30) consecutive days,' are in the front, side or rear yard, are visible from an adjacent property or roadway, and are 'missing a major component such as the engine, transmission, battery, tire(s), u-joint, differential, front suspension' or 'cannot be started and set into motion both forward and reverse for a distance of one hundred (100) feet.' Washington law (RCW 46.55.010(5)) defines a junk vehicle, and RCW 46.55.230 lets authorized officials inspect and authorize disposal of an abandoned junk vehicle.
Violations & Fines
Nuisance abatement after owner notice; certified junk vehicles may be removed and disposed of under RCW 46.55.230. Restoration and evidence vehicles under cover are exempt.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a car in my yard a nuisance?
Is a project car exempt?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Clark County
Compare Clark County to another location·View the Washington parking rules overview
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