Southfield, MI Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Section 5.27, part of the zoning chapter, targets two specific categories of vehicle rather than parking generally. An 'unlicensed motor vehicle' is defined as one not displaying a proper current license plate or proof of registration under the Michigan Vehicle Code, Act 300 of 1949, MCL 257.1 et seq. A 'disabled motor vehicle' is one that is inoperable because of dismantling, disrepair, or any other cause, or that is otherwise incapable of being propelled under its own power, whether or not it still carries valid plates.

Either type of vehicle can sit on a property, residential or commercial, for no more than seven days before it becomes a violation. The only exception is industrially zoned I-1 property, where such vehicles are permitted, but only if kept inside a fenced enclosure that is screened from view from adjacent properties, or kept entirely inside a building; leaving a disabled or unlicensed vehicle sitting in the open on an I-1 lot past seven days is still a violation if it is not screened or enclosed.

The rule was amended by Ordinance No. 1648 in December 2015, replacing an earlier 2007 version, and it works alongside the outside storage standard in the adjoining Sec. 5.28 and the off-street parking rules in Sec. 5.29 that limit residential parking areas to passenger vehicles kept less than 48 hours.