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

Key Facts

Notice Period: 45 days minimum
Statute: Ark. Code 27-50-1201+
Title Issued By: Arkansas DFA
Disposition: Auction or scrap

Full Breakdown

Under Arkansas Code Title 27, Chapter 50, Subchapter 12, an abandoned vehicle is one left on public or private property without permission for a defined period. Law enforcement or property owners may have it towed. Operators must notify the registered owner and lienholders by certified mail. After statutory notice and a 45-day waiting period, unclaimed vehicles may be sold at public auction or, if valued under threshold amounts, scrapped. The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration issues abandoned vehicle titles. Cities can enforce nuisance rules but cannot bypass the state titling and lien process.

Violations & Penalties

Failure to follow notice procedures voids tow operator liens. Owners face storage fees, towing charges, and loss of vehicle title after auction sale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a city tow an abandoned vehicle off private property in Arkansas?

Yes, but only after following state notice procedures. The property owner or police must request removal, and the tow operator must mail certified notice to the registered owner.

How long before an abandoned vehicle can be sold in Arkansas?

After 45 days of unclaimed storage following proper certified-mail notification, the vehicle may be sold at public auction or scrapped if value is below the statutory threshold.

Arkansas Abandoned Vehicle Removal and Title Law