Washington County, UT Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Title 4, Chapter 1 of the Washington County Code defines a "junk car" as a used car or motor vehicle not in the process of reconditioning that has been abandoned for use on a public highway and remains in unsafe operating condition for more than thirty (30) days, including detached parts like hoods, fenders, radiators, rims, motors, and hubcaps not immediately used in a repair. Section 4-1-2 then bars any person, firm, or corporation from depositing, storing, maintaining, or collecting junk, junk cars, rubbish, or cars that are unregistered or carry expired license plates on their own premises, on premises they control, or anywhere else in the county, except as expressly allowed by law.

The building inspector investigates complaints under section 4-1-3, and upon finding a violation must mail or personally serve written notice on the owner or occupant under sections 4-1-4 and 4-1-5, giving up to thirty days to remove the vehicle. A recipient can demand a hearing before the county commission within seven calendar days under section 4-1-6. If the owner still does not comply, the building inspector may enter the property and abate the violation directly, then bill the owner for the cost within twenty days, with unpaid bills collectible by lawsuit including attorney fees and court costs under sections 4-1-7 and 4-1-8.