Philadelphia, PA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Fine
- $300 (Section 12-1120(2))
- Abandoned threshold
- Parked 48+ hours unmoved
- Notice before tow
- 10 days' written notice
- Immediate tow
- If vehicle is a safety hazard
- Salvor deadline
- 60 days if police haven't removed it
Summary
Philadelphia bans leaving an inoperable, tireless, or unregistered vehicle parked on any street, with towing as abandoned after notice.
No person shall leave parked upon a street or highway any vehicle not capable of being moved under its own power; or with deflated tire or tires; or without current license tags... Such vehicle may be removed... as an abandoned vehicle if the vehicle is not moved after ten days' written notice for removal has been sent to the last registered owner thereof.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 Code: Electronic version of The Philadelphia Code and Home Rule Charter is current through August 19, 2026).
Full Breakdown
City Code Section 12-1120 bars parking any vehicle on a street or highway that cannot move under its own power, has a deflated or missing tire, or lacks current license tags. Police or an authorized Public Safety Officer can tow it as abandoned once it sits unmoved 48+ hours and the registered owner gets 10 days' written notice; a vehicle that is a safety hazard can be towed immediately, with notice sent within 12 hours after. If police haven't removed it within 60 days of notice, they must direct an authorized salvor to take possession. A violation is punishable under Section 12-1120(2) as "Abandoning Vehicle."
Violations & Fines
Fixed fine of $300 for violating Section 12-1120(2), plus towing and storage fees charged by the salvor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as an abandoned vehicle in Philadelphia?
Does the city tow it right away?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Philadelphia
Compare Philadelphia to another location·View the Pennsylvania parking rules overview
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