San Bernardino, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- 72-Hour Statute
- CVC 22651(k)
- Private Property Tow
- CVC 22658
- Nuisance Abatement
- CVC 22660
- Lien Sale
- Civil Code 3068 after 30 days
- Report Hotline
- (909) 384-5742
Summary
San Bernardino uses CVC 22651(k) to tow vehicles left on public streets more than 72 hours. Abandoned vehicles on private property can be removed under CVC 22658 with owner authorization.
22651. [...] (o) (1) If a vehicle is found or operated upon a highway, public land, or an offstreet parking facility under any of the following circumstances: (A) (i) With a registration expiration date in excess of six months before the date it is found or operated on the highway, public lands, or the offstreet parking facility. (ii) Prior to removing a vehicle pursuant to this subparagraph, the officer or employee shall verify, using available Department of Motor Vehicles records, that no current registration exists for the vehicle. [...] (B) Displaying in, or upon, the vehicle, a registration card, identification card, temporary receipt, license plate, special plate, registration sticker, device issued pursuant to Section 4853, or permit that was not issued for that vehicle or is not otherwise lawfully used on that vehicle under this code. (C) Displaying in, or upon, the vehicle, an altered, forged, counterfeit, or falsified registration card, identification card, temporary receipt, license plate, special plate, registration sticker, device issued pursuant to Section 4853, or permit.
Full Breakdown
Abandoned vehicle enforcement in San Bernardino follows California Vehicle Code 22651(k), which authorizes removal of any vehicle parked or left standing on a public street for 72 or more consecutive hours. San Bernardino Police Parking Services chalk tires and log vehicles in response to complaints submitted through the city's online Report a Concern tool, the CityConnect app, or by calling (909) 384-5742. A 72-hour warning notice is typically placed on the windshield. If the vehicle has not moved by the second inspection, it is eligible for tow by a contracted tow operator.
Abandoned vehicles on private property such as parking lots, apartment complexes, and residential driveways fall under CVC 22658, which allows the private property owner to authorize removal after posting required signage and providing the tow operator a signed authorization. Junked, wrecked, or inoperable vehicles stored on residential property constitute a nuisance under the San Bernardino Municipal Code and the Vehicle Code section 22660 Abandoned Vehicle Abatement Program, and Code Enforcement may issue a notice of violation, abate the vehicle, and lien the property for costs if the owner fails to act.
Reclaiming a towed vehicle requires the registered owner to pay towing, storage, and any outstanding fines at the contracted tow yard. Vehicles unclaimed after 30 days go to lien sale under California Civil Code 3068. Stolen vehicles recovered by Police are handled separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report an abandoned vehicle on my San Bernardino street?
Can I tow a car parked without permission in my apartment lot?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Bernardino
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Abandoned Vehicles in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Bernardino County handle abandoned vehicles.