Rhode Island Statewide Rule

Rhode Island Abandoned Vehicle Removal Statewide Procedure

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Rhode Island (2026)

Rhode Island General Laws Chapter 31-42, the Abandoned Motor Vehicles law, sets uniform statewide procedures for declaring, removing, and disposing of abandoned vehicles on public and private property across all municipalities.

Key Facts

Statute: Chapter 31-42
Public property: Abandoned after 48 hours
Private property: 72 hours without consent
Disposition: Auction or salvage

Source: Rhode Island General Assembly

Full Breakdown

Under R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 31-42, a motor vehicle left on public property may be treated as abandoned after more than 48 hours (or three days if left unlawfully), and a vehicle left on private property without the owner's consent for more than three days may be removed. Police or authorized agents may tow the vehicle to a licensed facility. The DMV and registered owner must receive written notice. After statutory waiting periods, unclaimed vehicles may be sold at public auction or transferred to a licensed salvage dealer.

Violations & Penalties

Owners face towing fees, daily storage charges, administrative fees, and loss of the vehicle through public auction or salvage transfer if it goes unclaimed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Rhode Island city tow my vehicle sooner?

Cities may tow for parking violations sooner under local ordinances, but the abandoned-vehicle classification, notice, and disposal procedures follow the statewide minimums in Chapter 31-42.

How will I be notified if my car is declared abandoned?

The towing or storage facility must notify the registered owner in writing through DMV records and give an opportunity to reclaim the vehicle before sale or salvage.

Sources

RIGL Chapter 31-41.1

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