Franklin, TN Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Section 15-614 targets two conditions specifically: a vehicle that is not in running condition, or one that lacks a current state license plate. Either condition makes it unlawful to leave the vehicle parked on any public way or place for more than 24 consecutive hours; once that window closes, the vehicle 'shall be impounded and stored at the expense of the owner,' with no discretion built into the section. Section 15-704 supplies the mechanics for that impoundment and applies more broadly to any vehicle parked in a place, manner, or for a length of time the Municipal Code prohibits, on a public street, alley, designated fire lane, or sidewalk, declaring an unattended vehicle in that condition both an obstruction and a public nuisance that any city police officer may have removed and impounded.

Release requires the owner to pay the Appendix A impoundment fee for each day, or part of a day, the vehicle sits in storage. If nobody claims the vehicle within 48 hours, the chief of police must make a diligent effort to locate the owner, including checking papers left in the vehicle and contacting any licensing agency shown on its plates or tags. If it remains unclaimed after 30 days, the city advertises it for public sale for cash, with notice posted at least ten and no more than 15 days before the sale in at least three public places and, if the owner is known, mailed to the owner and any lienholders.

Sale proceeds go first to the impound fee and storage costs, then to the owner or lienholder; if no owner is identified, the net proceeds are held for six months before reverting to the city's general fund.