Whatcom County, WA Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles (2026)
Key Facts
- Junk Vehicle
- Meets 3 of 4 RCW tests
- Private Property
- Enclose or screen from street
- Street Limit
- Often 24 to 72 hours
- State Law
- Chapter 46.55 RCW
- Towing
- At owner's expense
Summary
Whatcom County treats junk, wrecked, or inoperable vehicles stored in public view as a public nuisance. Washington defines a junk vehicle by meeting three of four tests, and abandoned vehicles left on public streets can be impounded after notice.
a vehicle certified under RCW 46.55.230 as meeting at least three of the following requirements: (a) Is three years old or older; (b) Is extensively damaged, such damage including but not limited to any of the following: A broken window or windshield, or missing wheels, tires, motor, or transmission; (c) Is apparently inoperable; (d) Has an approximate fair market value equal only to the approximate value of the scrap in it.
Full Breakdown
Whatcom County Code declares abandoned, wrecked, dismantled, or inoperative vehicles on private property a public nuisance, with exceptions for collector and special-interest vehicles kept out of view. Washington's junk-vehicle definition (RCW 46.55.010) requires a vehicle to meet at least three tests: three or more years old, extensively damaged, apparently inoperable, or worth only its scrap value. On private property, junk vehicles must be enclosed or screened from the street. On public streets, a vehicle abandoned beyond the posted limit, often 24 to 72 hours, can be tagged and impounded after owner notice under chapter 46.55 RCW.
Violations & Fines
The county gives notice before abating a junk vehicle. Abatement and towing are billed to the owner, often $150 to $500-plus, with storage fees and possible repeat-violation fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep an inoperable car in my yard?
What counts as a junk vehicle?
How long before a street-parked car is towed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Whatcom County
Compare Whatcom County to another location·View the Washington parking rules overview
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