Indiana Statewide Rule
Indiana Abandoned Vehicle Removal and Disposal Statute
Key Facts
- Private property threshold
- Over 48 hours unauthorized
- Public property
- Presumed abandoned if left/inoperable
- Disposal wait
- Not less than 30 days
- Low-value disposal cap
- $750 set by local ordinance
- Governing statute
- IC 9-22-1
Summary
Indiana Code Title 9, Article 22, Chapter 1 establishes a uniform statewide framework for identifying, towing, storing, and disposing of abandoned vehicles, applicable on public and private property across all municipalities.
Sec. 11. (a) An officer who finds or is notified of a vehicle or parts believed to be abandoned shall attach in a prominent place a notice tag containing the following information: (1) The date, time, officer's name, public agency, and address and telephone number to contact for information. (2) That the vehicle or parts are considered abandoned. (3) That the vehicle or parts will be removed after: (A) twenty-four (24) hours, if the vehicle is located on or within the right-of-way of an interstate highway or any highway that is designated as part of the state highway system under IC 8-23-4; or (B) except as provided in subsection (b), seventy-two (72) hours, for any other vehicle.
Full Breakdown
Under IC 9-22-1, a vehicle may be presumed abandoned if left on public property, left on private property without permission for more than 48 hours, or left in an inoperable, disrepaired state. Public agencies and law enforcement take custody, search databases to identify the owner, and send notice before disposal. A towing service or storage yard may dispose of an abandoned vehicle not less than 30 days after removal. A municipality may set by ordinance a low market value (not more than $750) below which a vehicle may be disposed of. Local ordinances must conform to these state procedures.
Violations & Penalties
Owners face towing, storage fees, and loss of title. Failing to claim within the statutory window results in disposal to a scrapyard, salvage recycler, or public sale without further compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my city create its own abandoned vehicle definition?
How long before a towed vehicle is disposed of?
Sources
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