Mobile, AL Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Visibility threshold
- 30 days
- Enclosed-storage exception
- no tarps/covers
- Impound sale
- after 60 days unclaimed
- Costs
- assessed against owner
Summary
Mobile declares any inoperable vehicle left in public view on private property for 30 or more days a public nuisance, subject to city removal and towing costs billed to the owner.
The term "inoperable motor vehicle" means any motor vehicle, trailer, recreational vehicle, camper, or semi-trailer that has remained on private property and in view of the general public for thirty (30) days or more and is inoperable in that one (1) or more of its major mechanical components, including, but not limited to, engine, transmission, drive train, or wheels, are missing or are not functional, or the vehicle otherwise constitutes a nuisance.(2)The term "official" means the city's code official, a municipal law enforcement officer, a municipal enforcement officer, or any other municipal employee designated by the mayor to exercise the authority and perform the duties provided in this article.(3)The term "city" means the City of Mobile, Alabama. (Ord. No. 52-010 2018, § 4, 5-22-18)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 67).
Full Breakdown
Under the city's inoperable motor vehicle ordinance, Sec. 52-181 et seq., a vehicle missing or lacking functional major components such as an engine, transmission, drive train, or wheels that sits in public view for 30 days or more is a declared public nuisance under Sec. 52-184 and Sec. 52-185. Owners get a written notice of violation and 30 days to remove the vehicle or store it in a fully enclosed building: tarps and car covers don't count under Sec. 52-186(3). If not resolved, the city tows it to the impound lot and bills removal and storage costs to the owner under Sec. 52-190 and Sec. 52-193.
Violations & Fines
The city posts and mails a notice giving 30 days to remove or fully enclose the vehicle; if ignored, it is towed to the impound lot, costs are assessed against the owner, and it's auctioned after 60 days unclaimed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can an inoperable car sit in my yard in Mobile?
What if the car is being repaired?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mobile
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