Oregon Statewide Rule

Oregon Abandoned Vehicle Removal And Disposition Statute

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Oregon (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: ORS 819.110-819.215
Custody trigger: 24+ hours unauthorized
Notice: Certified mail required
Hearing right: Owner may contest
Disposition: Public auction sale

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Oregon Public Law

Summary

Oregon law uniformly governs how abandoned vehicles are tagged, towed, stored, and disposed of statewide. ORS Chapter 819 sets notice, lien, and auction procedures that local agencies must follow when removing vehicles from public or private property.

819.110 Custody, towing and sale or disposal of abandoned vehicle; general provisions. (1) After providing notice required under ORS 819.170 and, if requested, a hearing under ORS 819.190, an authority described under ORS 819.140 may take a vehicle into custody and tow the vehicle if: (a) The authority has reason to believe the vehicle is disabled or abandoned; and (b) The vehicle has been parked or left standing upon any public way for a period in excess of 24 hours without authorization by statute or local ordinance.

Source: Oregon Public LawView official code

Full Breakdown

Under ORS 819.110 through 819.215, a vehicle left on a highway or public property more than 24 hours, or parked without authorization on private property, may be taken into custody by a police agency or appointed person. The agency must send certified-mail notice to the registered owner and any lienholder within specified timeframes, allow a hearing on the validity of the removal, and post the vehicle for public sale if unclaimed. Sale proceeds satisfy towing and storage liens before any surplus is paid to the state. Local jurisdictions implement removal but must conform to these statutory steps.

Violations & Penalties

Failure to follow ORS 819 notice, hearing, or sale procedures can void the tow, expose agencies to damages under ORS 819.215, and require return of the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a city sell my towed car without notice?

No. ORS 819.180 requires written notice to the registered owner and lienholders, plus an opportunity for a hearing before sale or disposal of any vehicle taken into custody.

How long before a vehicle is considered abandoned on the street?

Under ORS 819.110, a vehicle parked on a highway or public property more than 24 hours without authorization may be taken into custody as abandoned by police or an appointed agency.

Sources

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