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Santa Clara County, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: Santa Clara County Sheriff AVA →

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Key Facts

Public street: 72-hour tow under CVC 22651(k)
Private property: 10-day abatement notice
Screened storage: One vehicle if enclosed
Program: Statewide AVA program

City-specific rules exist: Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Palo Alto, Mountain View, and San Jose have their own abandoned vehicles rules that differ from Santa Clara County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Santa Clara County participates in the statewide Abandoned Vehicle Abatement program, allowing removal of derelict vehicles from public and private property after notice.

Full Breakdown

Santa Clara County participates in California's Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) program funded by DMV registration surcharges under CVC 22710. The Sheriff and code enforcement can tow abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles from public streets after a 72-hour posting under CVC 22523 and 22651(k). On private property, the county can abate inoperative vehicles stored in public view under county nuisance ordinances, typically requiring 10-day notice to the property owner and vehicle registered owner before removal. Vehicles without current registration, flat tires, missing parts, or obvious signs of non-operation are prima facie evidence of abandonment. Property owners may store up to one inoperative vehicle if it is fully enclosed in a garage or screened by a solid 6-foot fence from public view. Residents can report abandoned vehicles through the Sheriff or county code enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I report an abandoned vehicle?

Call Santa Clara County Sheriff non-emergency dispatch or use the county code enforcement online complaint form. Provide the license plate, location, and how long it has been parked.

Can I keep a project car in my driveway?

Only if it remains registered and operable, or is fully screened from public view by a garage or solid fence. Visible inoperative vehicles can be declared a nuisance.

How does Santa Clara County compare?

See how Santa Clara County's abandoned vehicles rules stack up against other locations.

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Santa Clara County, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

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