Marietta, GA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Chapter 9-12, 'Removal and Storage of Vehicles,' covers both public and private property. On public streets, rights-of-way and public property, Section 9-12-020 lets a law enforcement officer remove a wrecked or illegally parked vehicle for any of thirteen listed reasons, including that it has sat for more than 72 consecutive hours, has no registration plate, blocks a hydrant or driveway, or has five or more unpaid parking citations; if the vehicle poses no safety threat, Section 9-12-030 instead requires written notice by registered mail giving the owner five calendar days to move it before the city tows it.

On private property, Section 9-12-060 bars parking, storing or leaving any dismantled, junked or nonoperable motor vehicle or its parts, attended or not, for more than 72 consecutive hours, with exceptions for a vehicle enclosed in a building, one held by a licensed business in the correct zoning district, an operable drag-strip or raceway vehicle, or an operable antique bearing a valid Georgia antique tag. The director of development services or chief of police sends written notice by registered mail requiring removal within five calendar days; failure brings an ordinance violation citation under Section 9-12-080, and either the chief of police or planning and zoning director can enforce it.

Vehicle owners may redeem an impounded vehicle before sale by paying towing and storage costs under Section 9-12-050, and may request a hearing under Section 9-12-090 to contest liability for those charges.