Orange, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Time Limit
- 72 hours on public streets
- Must Move
- At least 1 mile
- Report
- (714) 744-7473
- State Law
- CVC §22651
Summary
Vehicles parked on Orange streets for more than 72 consecutive hours without movement may be towed as abandoned under California Vehicle Code Section 22651 and city enforcement procedures. Report abandoned vehicles to Orange Police at (714) 744-7473.
A peace officer ... 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 ... under the following circumstances: ... (o)(1) If a vehicle is found or operated upon a highway, public land, or an offstreet parking facility under any of the following circumstances: (A)(i) With a registration expiration date in excess of six months before the date it is found or operated on the highway, public lands, or the offstreet parking facility.
Full Breakdown
Under California Vehicle Code Section 22651 and the City of Orange enforcement procedures, vehicles parked on public streets for more than 72 consecutive hours without being moved may be marked and ultimately towed as abandoned. The Orange Police Department's Abandoned Vehicle Hotline at (714) 744-7473 accepts reports. When filing a report, provide the vehicle's license plate number, description, exact location, and estimated duration of parking. Upon written notice of a violation, the vehicle must be moved at least one mile or removed from the street. Inoperable vehicles (missing wheels, flat tires, expired registration) stored on public streets or visible from public view on private property are also subject to enforcement as nuisances.
Violations & Fines
Abandoned vehicles may be towed at the owner's expense after proper notice. Storage and towing fees accrue daily. Inoperable vehicles on private property visible from the street may result in code enforcement fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report an abandoned vehicle in Orange?
How long can a car be parked on the street in Orange?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Orange
California rules heatmap·Compare Orange to another location·View the California parking rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Abandoned Vehicles in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Orange County handle abandoned vehicles.