Fairfax County, VA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Abandonment trigger
- 15 days unmoved 300 feet
- Private tow requires
- owner's written request
- Auction after
- 40 days unclaimed
- Nearby-home exception
- within 500 feet of registration
Summary
Fairfax County police can tow any vehicle left unattended over 15 days without moving 300 feet, or lacking current plates or inspection, as presumptively abandoned under Section 82-5-29.
(c)It shall be presumed that such motor vehicle, trailer or semitrailer, or part thereof, is abandoned if: (1) it lacks either a current license plate, or a valid state inspection certificate or sticker, or is parked in violation of the law; or (2) it has been in a specific location for 15 days without being moved at least 300 feet. Provision (2) does not apply if the vehicle is parked within 500 feet of the property line where the vehicle is registered.
Full Breakdown
Section 82-5-29 lets police remove any motor vehicle, trailer or semitrailer left unattended for more than 15 days on public or private property without the owner's permission, or presumed abandoned because it lacks a current license plate or valid inspection sticker, or hasn't moved 300 feet in 15 days. The 300-foot rule doesn't apply within 500 feet of the vehicle's registered address. Towing from private property requires the property owner's written request, and the owner must pay removal and storage costs before reclaiming the vehicle; unclaimed vehicles are sold at public auction after 40 days.
Violations & Fines
Violating Section 82-5-29 is punishable under Section 82-1-32's general penalty provisions, and the registered owner is billed for towing, storage and any public-auction costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a car sit on a Fairfax County street before it's abandoned?
Can Fairfax County tow a car from my private driveway?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fairfax County
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