Michigan Abandoned Vehicles (2026)

Key Facts

Public property threshold: 48 hours unattended
Notice mechanism: Secretary of State LEIN entry
Hearing right: Owner may contest in district court
Statute: MCL 257.252a et seq.

Full Breakdown

Under MCL 257.252a-257.252l, a vehicle is abandoned if left on public property over 48 hours or on private property without consent. Police must enter the vehicle into LEIN, send a notice to the registered owner via the Secretary of State, and follow statutory redemption timelines before custodians may auction or scrap it. Local governments may enforce these procedures but cannot shorten the statutory notice period or bypass the state-mandated hearing rights.

Violations & Penalties

Improper disposal exposes towing companies and municipalities to civil liability and statutory damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Michigan city impound a car after only 24 hours?

Not as abandoned. Cities may ticket parking violations sooner, but the statutory abandoned-vehicle process requires 48 hours on public property under MCL 257.252a.

How does an owner reclaim a towed vehicle?

The owner must contact the listed custodian, pay accrued towing and storage fees, or request a redemption hearing in district court within 20 days of the mailed notice.

Michigan Abandoned Vehicle Removal And Disposal Law

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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