Los Angeles, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Time limit
- 72 consecutive hours
- Applies where
- Any public highway, street, or alley citywide
- Who enforces
- LAPD police officers and designated Department of Transportation traffic officers
- Vehicle release fee
- $115 when reclaiming from Official Police Garage
- Booting fee
- $150 if vehicle has 5+ delinquent citations and is immobilized
Summary
Any vehicle left parked on a Los Angeles public street or alley for 72 or more consecutive hours is unlawful and subject to removal by police or traffic officers.
It shall be unlawful for any person who owns or who has possession, custody or control of any vehicle to park that vehicle or leave it standing upon any highway, street or alley for 72 or more consecutive hours.
Full Breakdown
LAMC § 80.73.2 imposes a citywide 72-hour limit on street and alley parking. There is no exception based on the type of vehicle, whether it is operable, or the owner's intent. Upon removal, the officer must notify the registered owner in writing (immediately if the owner is identifiable from registration records) with the grounds for removal and the vehicle's location. If the owner cannot be identified within 120 hours, a written report is sent to the California DMV. The vehicle is taken to the nearest or Department-designated garage. A $115 vehicle release fee (LAMC § 80.77.1) is charged when the owner reclaims the vehicle from an Official Police Garage.
Violations & Fines
Civil penalty under LAMC § 80.76.2 (§ 80.73.2: more than 72 hours on street or alley). Vehicle may be removed by police or traffic officers (LAMC § 80.77). A $115 vehicle release fee applies when reclaiming from an Official Police Garage (LAMC § 80.77.1). A $150 booting fee applies when a vehicle with 5+ delinquent parking citations is immobilized (LAMC § 80.77.2).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I avoid the 72-hour rule by moving my car a few feet?
Can my car be towed even if it runs fine?
What happens to my car after it is towed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles 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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.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 Los Angeles County handle abandoned vehicles.