Hayward, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Street threshold
- 72 hours CVC 22651(k)
- Private property
- Must be screened or in garage
- Warning
- Tire mark and notice typical
- AVA Authority
- Alameda County participation
- Report
- HPD Parking 510-583-4900
Summary
Hayward enforces CVC 22651(k) allowing tow of vehicles parked over 72 hours on public streets. Abandoned vehicles on private property are addressed through Code Enforcement nuisance process.
d on a highway in violation of a local ordinance forbidding standing or parking and the use of a highway, or a portion thereof, is necessary for the cleaning, repair, or construction of the highway, or for the installation of underground utilities, and signs giving notice that the vehicle may be removed are erected or placed at least 24 hours prior to the removal by a local authority pursuant to the ordinance.
(m) If the use of the highway, or a portion of the highway, is authorized by a local authority for a purpose other than the normal flow of traffic or for the movement of equipment, articles, or structures of unusual size, and the parking of a vehicle would prohibit or interfere with that use or movement, and signs giving notice that the vehicle may be removed are erected or placed at
Full Breakdown
Abandoned vehicle enforcement in Hayward is handled by the Hayward Police Department Parking Enforcement division under California Vehicle Code 22651(k) and Hayward Municipal Code Chapter 10. A vehicle is presumptively abandoned when it has been parked on a public street for more than 72 consecutive hours or shows obvious signs of disrepair such as flat tires, expired registration over six months, broken windows, or missing parts. Officers typically mark tires and issue a 72-hour warning before towing. Vehicles on private property that are inoperable, unregistered, or wrecked must be stored inside a garage or screened from public view, and Code Enforcement can issue nuisance abatement orders. Hayward also participates in the Alameda County Abandoned Vehicle Abatement Service Authority funded by vehicle registration surcharges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report an abandoned vehicle?
Can I store a non-running car in my driveway?
Sources & Official References
- [1]CVC 22651
- [2]Hayward Police
Other rules in Hayward
California rules heatmap·Compare Hayward to another location·View the California parking rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Abandoned Vehicles in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Alameda County handle abandoned vehicles.