Sunnyvale, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Public street rule
- 72 hours (CVC 22651(k))
- Private property
- Must be enclosed if inoperable
- Abatement program
- Santa Clara County AVA
- Reporting
- Sunnyvale DPS non-emergency
- Owner liability
- Tow + storage + lien fees
Summary
Sunnyvale enforces abandoned vehicle removal through SMC Title 10 and CVC 22651(k) and 22669. Vehicles left over 72 hours on public streets or inoperable on private property may be towed.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a city, county, or city and county may adopt an ordinance establishing procedures for the abatement and removal, as public nuisances, of abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles or parts thereof from private or public property, and for the recovery, pursuant to Section 25845 or 38773.5 of the Government Code, or assumption by the local authority, of costs of administration and the removal.
Full Breakdown
Sunnyvale follows the California Vehicle Code abandoned vehicle abatement process. Under CVC 22651(k) a vehicle parked on a public street for more than 72 hours can be cited and towed. Vehicles that are wrecked, dismantled, or inoperable on private property in public view are nuisances under SMC Title 9 and Title 19 and must be removed or stored in a fully enclosed structure. Residents can report suspected abandoned vehicles to Sunnyvale DPS, which will investigate, chalk tires, and tow if the vehicle has not been moved. Sunnyvale participates in the Santa Clara County Abandoned Vehicle Abatement program, which funds removal from private property after notice. Owners are responsible for tow, storage, and lien-sale fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report an abandoned car on my street?
Can I keep a non-running project car in my driveway?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sunnyvale
California rules heatmap·Compare Sunnyvale to another location·View the California parking rules overview
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Abandoned Vehicles in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Santa Clara County handle abandoned vehicles.