Pleasanton, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Pleasanton's approach to abandoned and inoperative vehicles combines its Municipal Code with state law. Under Section 11.36.140, a vehicle that has been parked in one space for 72 or more consecutive hours must be moved at least one block or 250 lineal feet; failure to do so creates a violation. Chapter 11.40 (Removal of Vehicles from Streets) authorizes police officers to remove vehicles left on a street or highway for 72 or more consecutive hours and references California Vehicle Code Section 22651, the state authority for towing. The chapter also gives vehicle owners the right to a post-tow hearing on the factual basis of the removal, with an appeal path to the city manager, and sets administrative fees. The city's Traffic Engineering page confirms that 'vehicles parked on a street longer than 72 hours are subject to removal' under the Vehicle Code and city ordinance. Pleasanton operates a dedicated reporting line for abandoned vehicles, advertised as (925) 931-KARS (5277), through the Police Department's traffic unit. Wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles stored in public view on private property may also be addressed as nuisances by code enforcement. Because state law (CVC 22651 and the abandoned-vehicle abatement provisions) supplies much of the enforcement authority, the city's role is largely to apply and process those tows.