Miami, FL Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Miami enforces City Code Chapter 42 (Motor Vehicles & Traffic) and Florida Statutes Chapter 705 (Abandoned Property). A vehicle is presumed abandoned if it is left unattended on public property more than 72 hours, or if it is wrecked, junked, partially dismantled, or otherwise inoperable on any property. The City of Miami Code Compliance Department responds to reports filed through Miami 311 or the City of Miami mobile app. Officers affix a notice of intent to tow giving at least 72 hours to remove, after which the vehicle is towed to a city-contracted facility under FS §705.103. Junked or inoperable vehicles on private property — including front yards, side yards, swales, and driveways unless inside a fully enclosed garage — are a public nuisance under Miami Code §42-91 and may be abated by Code Compliance after at least 10 days written notice and an opportunity for a hearing. After a tow, the towing operator must notify the registered owner and lienholder by certified mail; owners have 35 days to claim the vehicle before it can be sold or destroyed.