San Mateo enforces the 72-hour vehicle storage limit on public streets under California Vehicle Code 22651. Inoperable vehicles on private property visible for more than 10 days are prohibited. The San Mateo Police Department handles abandoned vehicle reports.
Abandoned vehicles in San Mateo are regulated under California Vehicle Code Section 22651 and the municipal code. No vehicle may be stored on any public street for more than 72 consecutive hours without significant movement. It is unlawful to abandon, park, store, or leave any vehicle in an abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative condition on public property for more than 10 days. On private property, inoperable or unregistered vehicles visible from public view may be cited under the city's property maintenance provisions. The San Mateo Police Department handles abandoned vehicle reports and enforces the 72-hour rule. Vehicles with expired registration of six months or more are presumed abandoned.
Vehicles exceeding 72 hours on streets may be towed. Inoperable vehicles on private property visible for 10+ days face enforcement. Owners responsible for towing and storage fees.
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo prohibits nuisance barking under the city's noise ordinance and animal control provisions. Owners must prevent habitual barking that disturbs neigh...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo experiences aircraft noise from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), located approximately 3 miles north. The city cannot restrict FAA-contro...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo regulates amplified sound under SMMC Section 7.30.080. Handheld amplified sound equipment cannot exceed 10 watts. All amplified sound must comply w...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo limits permitted construction to 7 AM–7 PM weekdays, 9 AM–5 PM Saturdays, and noon–4 PM Sundays/holidays. Equipment cannot exceed 90 dB at 25 feet....
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo specifically regulates leaf blower operation under Chapter 10.80 in addition to the general noise ordinance. Leaf blowers must comply with both the...
San Mateo, CA
Fences up to 7 feet in San Mateo generally do not require a building permit if they comply with zoning regulations. Fences over 7 feet require a building per...
See how San Mateo's abandoned vehicles rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.