Durham, NC Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Under Durham Code of Ordinances Chapter 26 and North Carolina General Statute 160A-303, the City of Durham actively enforces abandoned, hazardous, and junked motor vehicle regulations. A junked vehicle is one that lacks a valid license plate or current registration and is inoperable, wrecked, or dismantled on private property. A vehicle left on any public street or highway for more than seven consecutive days is considered abandoned. When a violation is identified, the owner receives written notice with a compliance period to bring the vehicle into compliance by obtaining valid registration, making it operable, or removing it from the property. If the vehicle is not brought into compliance within the notice period, the city may arrange towing at the owner's expense. For abandoned vehicles on private property, the property owner may submit a Vehicle Release Form granting the City authority to remove the vehicle. The Department of Housing and Community Development administers enforcement. Report violations through Durham One Call at (919) 560-1200 or the online service request system.