Scottsdale enforces abandoned vehicle regulations under Arizona state law (ARS §28-871). Vehicles left on public streets for 72 or more consecutive hours, or vehicles that are inoperable, unregistered, or significantly deteriorated on private property may be classified as abandoned and subject to removal.
Arizona law (ARS §28-871) defines abandoned vehicles on public property as those left for 72 or more hours without being moved. On private property, vehicles that are inoperable, unregistered, or significantly deteriorated may also be classified as abandoned under Scottsdale's property maintenance standards. Scottsdale code enforcement handles abandoned vehicle complaints on private property, while police handle vehicles on public streets. The process includes a notice period, during which the owner has an opportunity to move or repair the vehicle. Abandoned vehicles on public streets are marked with a dated sticker and checked after 72 hours. Vehicles not moved are towed at the owner's expense. On residential properties, inoperable vehicles must be stored in an enclosed garage or behind a visual screen. The desert climate can accelerate vehicle deterioration, making this a common code enforcement issue.
Abandoned vehicles may be towed at the owner's expense. Property owners may also receive code enforcement citations for storing inoperable vehicles on residential lots.
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