San Antonio, TX Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Chapter 19, Art. X (Junked Vehicles); Sec. 19-396
- Definition
- Inoperable, unregistered, or dismantled vehicles
- Public Streets
- May be tagged and towed per TX Transportation Code Ch. 683
- Penalty
- $100–$2,000 per violation
- Enforcement
- Code Compliance and SAPD
Summary
San Antonio regulates abandoned and junked vehicles under Chapter 19, Article X (Junked Vehicles) and Sec. 19-396 (Wrecked/Abandoned Vehicles). Inoperable, unregistered, or dismantled vehicles on residential property are code violations. Vehicles on public streets may be tagged and towed under Texas Transportation Code Chapter 683. Code Compliance enforces violations with fines of $100 to $2,000.
(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 Texa
Full Breakdown
San Antonio Code Compliance handles junk and abandoned vehicle enforcement. Vehicles on residential property must be registered, have current inspection, and be operable. Inoperable, unregistered, or dismantled vehicles visible from public view are code violations. Vehicles on public streets without current registration or appearing abandoned can be tagged for towing under Texas Transportation Code Chapter 683 (48-hour notice). Vehicles stored on residential property must be on approved surfaces (not grass/dirt). The city's Property Maintenance Code requires removal of junk vehicles. Code Compliance can issue citations and, after notice, arrange for removal at the owner's expense.
Violations & Fines
Junk vehicle on property: citation, fine $100–$2,000. Failure to remove after notice: city removal at owner's expense. Abandoned on public road: 48-hour tag then tow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a non-running car in my driveway?
How do I report an abandoned vehicle?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Antonio
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Abandoned Vehicles in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle abandoned vehicles.