Mebane, NC Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Section 14-71 splits enforcement between the police department, which handles vehicles abandoned on public streets and city-owned property, and the building inspector, who handles abandoned, nuisance or junked vehicles on private property; the city may also contract annually with private tow operators to remove them. Section 14-72 defines a "nuisance vehicle" as one that's a breeding ground for mosquitoes or vermin, has weeds over eight inches, collects standing water or gasoline odor, has a trunk or hood that won't open from inside, risks falling or tipping over, collects garbage or has jagged sharp edges.

A "junked motor vehicle" under G.S. 160A-303.2 is one without a current plate that's partially dismantled, can't move under its own power, or is over five years old and worth less than $100.00. Section 14-75 allows only one junked vehicle per property, and it must sit in the rear yard fully concealed by a covering, enclosure or garage that stays in good repair; any additional junked vehicle must be fully enclosed. Section 14-73 and § 14-74 let the police department or building inspector, respectively, determine and order removal of abandoned or nuisance vehicles.

Section 14-77 allows the city to skip advance notice for emergency removals, such as vehicles obstructing traffic or blocking access to a home or business. An owner can appeal a removal determination to the city council, request a probable cause hearing before the county magistrate under § 14-79, or redeem the vehicle by paying towing and storage fees, or posting a double bond, under § 14-80.