Macomb County, MI Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- State Statute
- MCL 257.252a
- Public Property Trigger
- 48 hours
- State Trunk-line
- 18 hours if plated
- Civil Fine
- $50
- Contest Bond
- $40 + tow/storage
Summary
Abandoned vehicles in Macomb County are processed under statute MCL 257.252a, enforced by the Sheriff in townships it polices. A vehicle is abandoned after 48 hours on public property (18 hours on a state trunk-line if plated), or at once on private property without consent. Report via the Sheriff's form.
"Abandoned vehicle" means... (a) A vehicle that has remained on private property without the consent of the owner. (b) A vehicle that has remained on public property for a period of not less than 48 hours... (i) If a valid registration plate is affixed to the vehicle, for a period of not less than 18 hours.
Full Breakdown
MCL 257.252a controls statewide and in Macomb County. An abandoned vehicle includes one left on private property without the owner's consent, or on public property at least 48 hours (18 hours on a state trunk-line like I-94 or M-59 if plated). The police agency (the Macomb County Sheriff in the townships it serves, or a city department elsewhere) confirms it is not stolen, affixes notice, and may tow. The Secretary of State mails the owner notice; the owner has 20 days to redeem or request a hearing by posting a $40 bond plus tow and storage. The civil fine for abandoning is $50. On private property, an owner may tow directly via a local towing agency under subsection (10).
Violations & Fines
The Michigan civil fine for abandoning a vehicle is $50 under MCL 257.252a(1), plus tow and daily storage. To reclaim, the owner posts a $40 bond plus accrued fees at the named court within 20 days, or it is sold.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before a car is abandoned in Macomb County?
How do I report an abandoned vehicle in Macomb County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Macomb County
Compare Macomb County to another location·View the Michigan parking rules overview
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