Harris County, TX Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Public Road
- 48 hours before removal
- State Law
- TX Transportation Code Ch. 683
- Enforcement
- Sheriff and Constables
- Private Property
- Owner can request towing
Summary
Harris County enforces abandoned vehicle regulations under Texas Transportation Code Chapter 683. Vehicles left on public roadways for 48+ hours or on private property without consent can be towed. The county works with private tow companies for removal.
Sec. 683.002. ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE. (a) For the purposes of this chapter, a motor vehicle is abandoned if the motor vehicle:(1) is inoperable, is more than five years old, and has been left unattended on public property for more than 48 hours;(2) has remained illegally on public property for more than 48 hours;(3) has remained on private property without the consent of the owner or person in charge of the property for more than 48 hours;(4) has been left unattended on the right-of-way of a designated county, state, or federal highway for more than 48 hours;(5) has been left unattended for more than 24 hours on the right-of-way of a turnpike project constructed and maintained by the Texas Turnpike Authority division of the Texas D
Full Breakdown
Texas Transportation Code Chapter 683 authorizes removal of abandoned motor vehicles from public roads and private property. A vehicle is considered abandoned if it is inoperable, wrecked, or left unattended on public property for more than 48 hours. On private property, the property owner can request towing of unauthorized vehicles. Harris County Sheriff's Office and Precinct Constables can tag and initiate removal of abandoned vehicles. Junk vehicles on private property in unincorporated areas may be addressed through nuisance abatement under Texas Local Government Code Chapter 343.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a car sit on the street before it's towed in Harris County?
Can I report a junk car on someone's property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Harris County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Harris County to another location·View the Texas parking rules overview
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