Report an abandoned vehicle

We'll investigate and remove abandoned vehicles that have been left on council-owned land (if they meet the criteria below).

You can report an abandoned vehicle to us if:

• it does not have an up-to-date vehicle tax
• it is stationary for a significant amount of time (3 weeks or more)
• is burnt out and owner is not known locally
• is significantly damaged or unroadworthy, for example it has:
  • flat tyres
  • missing wheels
  • broken windows
• the number plates are missing

We can not investigate vehicles that are not abandoned. This includes vehicles that:

• are still being used
• are taxed or have SORN status (Statutory Off Road Notification)
  • you can check a vehicle's tax status online
• have an MOT
• are insured
• are maintained (or in a reasonable condition)

You can view our responsibilities in dealing with abandoned vehicles on GOV.UK.

A vehicle which is not abandoned (but is a nuisance) can be reported in different ways.

You can report an abandoned vehicle online.

In the form, you'll need to tell us:

• the postcode or street name
• the location on a map
• the type of vehicle
• how long the vehicle has been there
• if the vehicle is taxed
• the condition of the vehicle (if there is any damage)

You can also add photographs and comments.

Before you report a vehicle, ensure you've read all the information on this page.

You can sign up to receive alerts on the progress of your report, and you can view our process for removing the vehicle below.

After you've reported a vehicle, we'll:

• try to contact the owner
• attach a notice to the vehicle warning that it will be removed if no one claims it
• remove the vehicle (after the notice period has ended)

We'll then take it to a compound or destroy it.

The length of the notice depends on where the vehicle is:

• 24-hour notice, if the vehicle is dangerous
• 7-day notice, if the vehicle is on public land, road or the highway
• 15-day notice, if the vehicle is on private land