Renton, WA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Renton enforces state abandoned-vehicle law under RCW 46.55 through Renton Police and parking enforcement. Any vehicle parked on a public street for more than 72 consecutive hours can be marked with a warning tag; if not moved within the notice period, it may be impounded by a registered tow operator. Vehicles with expired tabs for more than 45 days, missing license plates, or clear signs of long-term disuse can also be tagged as abandoned. Inoperable junk vehicles on private property are addressed under RMC Chapter 1-3 nuisance provisions and RCW 46.55.240, which allows local authorities to abate junk vehicles visible from the street or public right-of-way after proper notice and hearing. Owners are responsible for tow and storage fees and may lose the vehicle through a junk auction if fees remain unpaid. To report an abandoned vehicle, call Renton Police non-emergency at (425) 430-7500 or use the city online request portal. Private property owners should post no-trespass signage and contact a licensed tow company to remove unauthorized vehicles.