RIGL 31-42 governs abandoned motor vehicles statewide. Vehicles left 10 or more days in commercial garages after notice are deemed abandoned. Individual municipalities enforce abandoned vehicle removal on public streets under their own ordinances. Providence County has no county government and no county-level abandoned vehicle program.
Providence County defines abandoned vehicles as those left on public property for an extended period (typically 72 hours) or inoperable vehicles stored on private property visible from the street. Vehicles without current registration, flat tires, or significant damage may be classified as abandoned. Code enforcement issues a notice to the registered owner before towing. On private property, vehicles must be in an enclosed garage or behind an opaque fence. Certain exemptions may apply for vehicles actively being repaired with a valid permit.
Notice period typically 72 hours to 10 days. Towing and storage at owner expense ($150 to $500+). Additional fines for repeat violations.
Providence County, RI
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See how Providence County's abandoned vehicles rules stack up against other locations.
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