Vermont Abandoned Vehicle Removal and Disposal Law

Under 23 V.S.A. Chapter 21, an abandoned vehicle is one left unattended on public property over 24 hours or on private property without consent. Law enforcement or property owners must report abandoned vehicles to DMV, which issues an abandoned vehicle identification number. Licensed salvage yards or towing operators may take custody after notice to the registered owner and lienholders. After statutory waiting periods (generally 30 days), unclaimed vehicles may be sold or dismantled. Municipalities cannot bypass DMV reporting and notice procedures, though they may enact ordinances regulating storage on private lots.

Improper disposal, failure to notify DMV, or removing vehicles without authority can result in civil penalties, restitution to owners, and salvage license sanctions.