Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Richmond, TX Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Code chapter
Chapter 22 Nuisances
Trigger
Visible from public place
Notice period
Typically 10 days
State law basis
Texas Transportation Code 683

Summary

Richmond's Chapter 22 nuisance code declares junked vehicles visible from public places a public nuisance subject to abatement and removal.

Sec. 683.002. ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE. (a) For the purposes of this chapter, a motor vehicle is abandoned if the motor vehicle:(1) is inoperable, is more than five years old, and has been left unattended on public property for more than 48 hours;(2) has remained illegally on public property for more than 48 hours;(3) has remained on private property without the consent of the owner or person in charge of the property for more than 48 hours;(4) has been left unattended on the right-of-way of a designated county, state, or federal highway for more than 48 hours;(5) has been left unattended for more than 24 hours on the right-of-way of a turnpike project constructed and maintained by the Texas Turnpike Authority division of the Texas Department of Transportation or

Source: Municode LibraryView official code

Full Breakdown

Chapter 22 of the Richmond Code of Ordinances adopts the Texas Transportation Code framework for junked vehicles and declares them a public nuisance within the city. A junked vehicle is one that is wrecked, dismantled, partially dismantled, inoperable, or lacking a current license plate or motor vehicle inspection certificate. The vehicle becomes a nuisance when it is visible from a public place or right-of-way, or from neighboring private property. Following written notice, the city may abate the nuisance by removing the vehicle if the owner fails to cure the violation.

Violations & Fines

Class C misdemeanor; fines up to $200 per offense; vehicle removal and disposal at owner's expense after notice and hearing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a vehicle 'junked' in Richmond?
It is wrecked, dismantled, inoperable, or missing current registration or inspection, AND visible from a public street or neighboring property. Both elements must be present.
Can I keep a project car if it is covered with a tarp?
A tarp typically does not satisfy the 'not visible' requirement. Richmond expects the vehicle to be inside a garage or behind a solid screen to avoid the nuisance designation.
What happens if I do not remove a junked vehicle after notice?
The city may impound the vehicle and bill the owner for removal and storage, plus pursue Class C misdemeanor citations carrying fines up to $200.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Richmond

All Richmond rules

Texas rules heatmap·Compare Richmond to another location·View the Texas parking rules overview

Get notified when Abandoned Vehicles in Richmond, TX changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

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 Fort Bend County handle abandoned vehicles.

Stafford, TX
Light Restrictions
Missouri City, TX
Light Restrictions
Rosenberg, TX
Light Restrictions
Fulshear, TX
Some Restrictions
Katy, TX
Some Restrictions
Sugar Land, TX
Some Restrictions