Alabama Abandoned Vehicles Law: Statewide Parking Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: Code §32-13-1 et seq.
Public abandonment: 48 hours
Notice waiting period: 30 days
Reporting agency: Department of Revenue
Sale method: Public auction

Full Breakdown

Alabama Code Sections 32-13-1 through 32-13-8 establish the uniform Abandoned Motor Vehicle Act applied statewide. A vehicle is deemed abandoned when left unattended on public property over 48 hours, or on private property without permission. Wrecker services or property owners must report abandoned vehicles to the Department of Revenue within five days, send certified-mail notices to the registered owner and lienholders, and wait at least 30 days before sale at public auction. Cities may regulate towing logistics but cannot shorten statutory notice periods or bypass the Department of Revenue reporting requirement.

Violations & Penalties

Failure to follow notice and reporting steps voids the sale and exposes towers to civil liability for conversion damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a city shorten Alabama's 30-day waiting period?

No. The 30-day waiting period is set by state statute and applies uniformly. Municipal ordinances cannot accelerate the sale of an abandoned vehicle.

Who can declare a vehicle abandoned on private property?

Property owners or their authorized wrecker service may begin the process under Code §32-13-1 if a vehicle remains without permission, then must follow all statutory notice steps.

Alabama Abandoned Motor Vehicle Act Statewide Rules