Utah Statewide Rule
Utah Abandoned Vehicle Removal and Title Procedures
Key Facts
- Statute
- Utah Code 41-6a-1401
- Notice period
- 30 days
- Title authority
- Utah MVD
- Fee caps
- UDOT rules
- Sale
- Public auction
Summary
Utah Code Title 41, Chapter 6a, Part 14 establishes uniform statewide procedures for impounding, noticing, and disposing of abandoned vehicles, with the Motor Vehicle Division managing title transfer through the Utah impound process.
41-6a-1408. Abandoned vehicles - Removal by peace officer - Report - Vehicle identification. (1) As used in this section, "abandoned vehicle, vessel, or outboard motor" means a vehicle, vessel, or outboard motor that is left unattended: (a) on a highway or on or in the waters of the state for a period in excess of 48 hours; or (b) on public or private property for a period in excess of seven days without express or implied consent of the owner or person in lawful possession or control of the property. (2) A person may not abandon a vehicle, vessel, or outboard motor on a highway or on or in the waters of the state. (3) A person may not abandon a vehicle, vessel, or outboard motor on public or private property without the express or implied consent of the owner or person in lawful possession or control of the property. (4) A peace officer who has reasonable grounds to believe that a vehicle, vessel, or outboard motor has been abandoned may remove the vehicle, vessel, or outboard motor or cause it to be removed in accordance with Section 41-6a-1406 or 73-18-20.1.
Full Breakdown
Under Utah Code 41-6a-1401 through 1408, a peace officer or authorized agent who finds a vehicle abandoned on public or private property may have it removed to a state-impound yard. The Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) sends statutory notice to the registered owner and lienholders. If the vehicle is not redeemed within 30 days after notice, the impound yard may sell the vehicle at public sale and apply for a title under Utah Code 41-1a-1101. Storage and towing fees are capped by Utah Department of Transportation rules. While cities may add ordinances on time-on-street thresholds, the state procedure for taking title and disposing of abandoned vehicles is uniform statewide.
Violations & Penalties
Improperly disposing of an impounded vehicle outside the statutory notice window can void the sale and expose the tow operator or municipality to civil liability for conversion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before a vehicle is considered abandoned in Utah?
Who issues title for an abandoned vehicle sold at impound in Utah?
Sources
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