New Castle County UDC 40.04.110 prohibits storing abandoned, inoperable, or unregistered vehicles in residential zones visible from the street. Vehicles on public streets more than 72 hours are subject to tow under 21 Del. C. §4184.
New Castle County UDC 40.04.110 defines an abandoned or junked vehicle as one that is inoperable, lacks current Delaware registration, has flat tires, or is missing major components, and it cannot be stored on residential property unless fully enclosed in a garage or screened behind a 6-foot opaque fence. On public streets, a vehicle left more than 72 hours without moving is presumed abandoned under 21 Del. C. §4184 and may be tagged by police for removal. One vehicle actively being repaired may be exempt for up to 30 days with documentation. Wilmington enforces similar rules through City Code Chapter 37. Abandoned vehicles reported to NCCPD or Delaware State Police follow tag-and-tow procedures.
UDC 40.04.110 violation: Notice of Violation with 15 days to correct, then civil penalties $100 to $500 per vehicle per day. On-street abandoned vehicle: tagged for 72 hours then towed at owner expense ($150 to $400 tow + storage). Multiple violations: abatement with costs liened against property.
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