Abandoned vehicles in unincorporated Orange County are enforced under California Vehicle Code Sections 22523, 22651, and 22669. A vehicle parked on a public street for over 72 hours or lacking essential components may be towed immediately by the OC Sheriff.
Under CVC Section 22523, it is unlawful to abandon any vehicle upon a highway or public or private property. CVC Section 22669 authorizes immediate removal of vehicles that lack an engine, transmission, wheels, tires, doors, windshield, or any other part necessary for safe operation. For vehicles parked over 72 hours, a Notice of Intent to Store is posted giving the owner 72 hours to move the vehicle before towing. The OC Sheriff handles abandoned vehicle enforcement in unincorporated areas. On private property, inoperable vehicles visible from public view may also violate OCCO nuisance abatement provisions. The registered owner is liable for all towing and storage costs.
Towing and up to 7 days of storage fees are charged to the owner under CVC 22669. Unclaimed vehicles are processed for lien sale after 30 days. Repeat offenders on private property face code enforcement administrative citations.
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