Santa Paula, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Street Threshold
- 72 hours without moving
- Private Property
- Inoperable or unregistered 6+ months
- Notice Period
- 10 days on private property
- Tow Cost
- $200+ plus daily storage
- Exemption
- Active restoration in enclosed garage
Summary
Santa Paula enforces California Vehicle Code provisions for abandoned and inoperable vehicles. Vehicles parked on public streets for 72+ hours without moving or vehicles on private property that are inoperable, unregistered, or dismantled are subject to abatement.
(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. A vehicle shall not be removed pursuant to this subparagraph if it has a current registration on file with the Department of Motor Vehicles, regardless of whether the vehicle is in compliance with subdivision (a) of Section 5204.
Full Breakdown
Under SPMC and California Vehicle Code §22669, a vehicle on a public street is considered abandoned after 72 hours in the same location without being moved. Vehicles on private property that are inoperable (flat tires, missing parts), unregistered for 6+ months, or being dismantled are considered nuisance vehicles under SPMC property maintenance code. The city issues a notice to the property owner with 10 days to remove or repair the vehicle. Vehicles on blocks or actively being restored in an enclosed garage are generally exempt. The city's code enforcement division handles private property complaints; Santa Paula PD handles street complaints.
Violations & Fines
Abandoned vehicles on the street receive a 72-hour notice, then towing at the owner's expense ($200+ tow fee plus daily storage). Nuisance vehicles on private property receive a 10-day notice; failure to comply results in fines of $100/day and potential abatement by the city billed to the property owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Santa Paula define an abandoned vehicle?
Can I have a project car in my driveway?
Who do I report an abandoned vehicle to?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Paula
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Paula to another location·View the California parking rules overview
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Abandoned Vehicles in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Ventura County handle abandoned vehicles.