Fort Worth, TX Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Definition
- 5+ days same spot
- AVE Unit
- Warning sticker first
- Street Report
- 817-335-4222
- Private Report
- 817-392-1234
Summary
Fort Worth Sec. 22-159 defines abandoned vehicles as stored on public street 5+ days at same location. Abandoned Vehicle Enforcement (AVE) unit stickers with warning. On private property: Code Compliance 817-392-1234. Police non-emergency: 817-335-4222.
Sec. 683.002. ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE. (a) For the purposes of this chapter, a motor vehicle is abandoned if the motor vehicle:(1) is inoperable, is more than five years old, and has been left unattended on public property for more than 48 hours;(2) has remained illegally on public property for more than 48 hours;(3) has remained on private property without the consent of the owner or person in charge of the property for more than 48 hours;(4) has been left unattended on the right-of-way of a designated county, state, or federal highway for more than 48 hours;(5) has been left unattended for more than 24 hours on the right-of-way of a turnpike project constructed and maintained by the Texas Turnpike Authority division of the Texas Department of Transportation or a controlled acce
Full Breakdown
Fort Worth Code of Ordinances Sections 22-159 and 22-222 govern abandoned vehicles. A vehicle stored on a public street for more than 5 days at the same location is considered abandoned. The Abandoned Vehicle Enforcement (AVE) unit stickers vehicles with a warning; after 5 days the vehicle is subject to impoundment. For abandoned vehicles on public streets, report to police non-emergency at 817-335-4222. For junk vehicles on private property, report to Code Compliance at 817-392-1234; a warning is issued, and if not remedied, the vehicle is towed. All vehicles on residential property must be parked on improved surfaces.
Violations & Fines
Fine up to $200 per offense. Vehicle subject to impoundment. Owner charged towing/storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a car sit on the street without moving?
Can I keep an inoperable car in my driveway?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fort Worth
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Abandoned Vehicles in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Tarrant County handle abandoned vehicles.