Montana Abandoned Vehicle Removal and Title Procedures

Under MCA 61-12-401 through 61-12-407, vehicles left on public property for more than 48 hours after being tagged, or on private property without consent, may be declared abandoned. Law enforcement or authorized agents must record VIN, license plate, and condition; the Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division then notifies the registered owner and lienholders. After mandatory hold periods (generally 30 days for titled vehicles), unclaimed vehicles may be sold at public auction or destroyed. Local ordinances may add notice steps but cannot bypass MVD title procedures. Private property owners must request law-enforcement assistance to lawfully remove abandoned vehicles.

Improper towing or sale without statutory notice exposes municipalities and tow operators to civil damages, attorney fees, and conversion claims under MCA 61-12-407.