Riverside, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Abandoned vehicles in Riverside are regulated under a combination of California Vehicle Code (§22651, §22658, §22669, §22523) and Riverside Municipal Code provisions on public nuisance. On public streets, any vehicle parked in the same location for more than 72 hours may be marked, and if unmoved is subject to impound under CVC §22651(k). A vehicle that is wrecked, dismantled, inoperative, or apparently abandoned on public or private property may be removed under CVC §22669 following notice procedures. On private property, an owner may authorize towing of an unauthorized vehicle via a signed, compliant tow authorization under CVC §22658 with the required posted signage. Riverside participates in the San Bernardino/Riverside Service Authority for Abandoned Vehicles (SAVA), funded by the $1 per-vehicle registration surcharge, to pay for abatement. Complaints can be submitted through the Riverside Police Department's Abandoned Vehicle Abatement unit at (951) 826-5700 or via the city's Engage Riverside app. Storing an inoperable vehicle visible from the street on private residential property is a public nuisance under local code, even on the owner's own driveway.