Under RCW 46.55, Federal Way police can tag and tow a vehicle left on a public street for more than 72 hours. On private property, owners follow state impound-notice rules.
Federal Way enforces the Washington abandoned-vehicle law RCW 46.55.010 through FWRC Title 8. A vehicle parked more than 72 hours on any Federal Way public street may be tagged by police and then impounded if not moved. Vehicles with expired registration over 45 days, flat tires that cannot be driven, or obvious long-term disuse signs (spider webs, heavy leaf buildup) can also be declared abandoned. On private property, owners and managers must follow RCW 46.55.070 which requires posted tow-warning signs and written impound notices before a vehicle is moved. Junk and wrecked vehicles visible from the street are a separate Code Compliance violation under FWRC Title 13 property maintenance rules and must be stored indoors or fully screened. To report an abandoned vehicle in Federal Way, call Federal Way Police at 253-835-6700 or use the online code compliance form.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Federal Way, WA
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