Mountain View, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Street threshold
- 72 hours continuous
- Private property authority
- CVC 22660
- Abatement notice
- 10-day written notice
- Registration expiry
- 6 months presumes abandonment
- Report method
- Online or non-emergency phone
Summary
Vehicles left on Mountain View streets over 72 hours or on private property in public view without movement may be declared abandoned and towed. Reports can be submitted online or by phone to Police non-emergency.
22651. A peace officer, as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830) of Title 3 of Part 2 of the Penal Code, or a regularly employed and salaried employee who is engaged in directing traffic or enforcing parking laws and regulations of a city, county, or jurisdiction of a state agency in which a vehicle is located may remove a vehicle located within the territorial limits in which the officer or employee may act, under the following circumstances: (a) If a vehicle is left unattended upon a bridge, viaduct, or causeway or in a tube or tunnel where the vehicle constitutes an obstruction to traffic.
Full Breakdown
Under California Vehicle Code 22651(k) and Mountain View City Code, any vehicle parked on a public street for more than 72 continuous hours may be marked, cited, and towed as abandoned. Parking Enforcement typically chalks tires or photographs tire positions to verify non-movement. On private property, vehicles that are inoperable, wrecked, dismantled, or in a state of disrepair and visible from the street or neighboring lots violate CVC 22660 and the Mountain View Code Enforcement provisions. Property owners receive a 10-day notice to abate before the city may tow at the owner's expense. Vehicles without current registration for more than 6 months are presumptively abandoned.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report an abandoned vehicle?
Can I keep a project car in my driveway?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mountain View
California rules heatmap·Compare Mountain View to another location·View the California parking rules overview
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Abandoned Vehicles in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Santa Clara County handle abandoned vehicles.