Kings County, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Kings County has a detailed abandoned-vehicle abatement program in Code Chapter 23, Article IV (sections 23-71 through 23-89), adopted under California Vehicle Code section 22660. Section 23-71 finds that accumulation of abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles (or parts) on private or public property, not including highways, reduces property values, promotes blight, invites plundering, creates fire hazards, and harbors rodents, so such vehicles are declared a public nuisance. The program does not apply to a vehicle completely enclosed within a building, or one lawfully stored in connection with a licensed dismantler, dealer, or junkyard (sec. 23-73). Enforcement runs through the building official (planning director) (sec. 23-75). After attempting voluntary compliance, the official issues a 10-day written notice of intention to abate, sent by certified mail to the property owner and the vehicle's registered/legal owners, stating hearing rights (sec. 23-78). If no hearing is requested, the vehicle is removed to a junkyard, dismantler, or disposal site, and the owner pays administrative costs plus removal costs (sec. 23-80). Section 23-72 sets the administrative cost at $20.00 per vehicle removed without a hearing. A removed vehicle may not be reconstructed unless it qualifies as a historical vehicle under CVC 5004 (sec. 23-86). On county roads, the Kings County Abandoned Vehicle Abatement program and CVC apply.