San Diego enforces a 72-hour street parking limit under SDMC 86.0125 and California Vehicle Code 22651(k). The SDPD Abandoned Vehicle Detail responds to complaints, marks the tires, and tows vehicles that remain unmoved or have registration expired over six months (CVC 22651(o)). Inoperable vehicles on private property are handled by Code Enforcement under a separate nuisance ordinance.
San Diego Municipal Code 86.0125 prohibits any vehicle from remaining parked on a public street or highway for more than 72 consecutive hours. The SDPD Abandoned Vehicle Detail handles complaints submitted through the Get It Done app or by calling (619) 531-2000. Officers mark the vehicle and return after 72 hours; if not moved, the vehicle is towed under California Vehicle Code 22651(k). CVC 22651(o) additionally authorizes tow whenever vehicle registration has been expired more than six months. Inoperable vehicles stored on private property — including driveways and yards — fall under SDMC 54.0414, which defines a vehicle as inoperable if it lacks current registration, is wrecked, dismantled, has flat tires, or cannot be moved under its own power. Code Enforcement notices the owner with a 10-day cure period. The city must notify the registered owner of any tow by certified mail within 48 hours; storage fees accrue daily and unclaimed vehicles go to lien sale after 30 days.
Tow fees typically $230-$300, daily storage $55-$70, plus release/administrative fees. Total first-week recovery costs $450-$1,200. Lien sale at 30 days unclaimed. Inoperable-vehicle nuisance citations on private property carry administrative penalties of $100-$1,000 per SDMC 12.0202.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle abandoned vehicles.
See how San Diego's abandoned vehicles rules stack up against other locations.
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