West Covina, CA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Time Limit
- 72 hours
- Release Fee
- $206.40
- Report
- (626) 939-8426
- Code
- WCMC §22-22, CVC §22651(k)
Summary
West Covina Municipal Code Section 22-22 and California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k) define an abandoned vehicle as one parked on a public street for 72 or more consecutive hours. Vehicles are tagged, given notice, and towed if not moved. The vehicle release fee is $206.40.
An abandoned vehicle is defined by the California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k) and West Covina Municipal Code 22-22 as any vehicle left parked or standing upon a street or highway for seventy-two (72) or more consecutive hours. Vehicles that are reported as possibly abandoned will generally be marked and left tagged for the required 72 hours before receiving a citation or being removed. Identifying a Possible Abandoned Vehicle The following are some signs of an abandoned vehicle:
Cobwebs extending to the roadway Dirt and debris gathered under the vehicle An obvious layer of dust on the vehicle windows and body Reporting a Vehicle
When calling in to report a vehicle, please have the following ready: The exact location of the vehicle (address or nearest cross streets) License plate number (if available) Vehicle description (make, model, color) To report a possible abandoned vehicle, please call 626-939-8426.
Full Breakdown
Under West Covina Municipal Code Section 22-22 and California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k), any vehicle left parked or standing upon a street or highway for 72 or more consecutive hours is considered abandoned. The enforcement process begins with a report: either from residents or patrol officers. Reported vehicles are marked with a chalk mark or tag and given the required 72-hour notice period. If the vehicle is not moved within the notice period, it receives a citation and may be towed to a contracted tow yard. Vehicle owners must obtain an impound release from the Records Bureau at the West Covina Police Department. The vehicle release fee is $206.40, payable in person at the Police Department. Additional storage fees are charged by the tow company. Report potentially abandoned vehicles by calling (626) 939-8426.
Violations & Fines
Parking citation for 72-hour violation. Vehicle may be towed at owner's expense. Impound release fee: $206.40 from WCPD Records Bureau. Daily storage fees apply at the tow yard. Repeated violations on the same vehicle may result in lien sale proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before a vehicle is considered abandoned in West Covina?
How do I retrieve a towed vehicle in West Covina?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in West Covina
California rules heatmap·Compare West Covina to another location·View the California parking rules overview
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