Abandoned and nuisance vehicles
Last Updated: 15 March 2021
Please refer to the guidance below before you report an abandoned or nuisance vehicle.
Abandoned vehicle
Check before reporting
Is the vehicle really abandoned?
Things you need to think about and check before reporting:
- a vehicle in good condition is unlikely to have been abandoned. An abandoned vehicle might have significant damage, flat tyres, wheels removed or broken windows
- is the keeper of the vehicle known or live locally?
- an abandoned vehicle is one which might have been left, unused, in one location for several weeks and may not be roadworthy
- if a vehicle is untaxed or SORN and is being kept on the highway you can report an untaxed vehicle to DVLA
Check whether the vehicle is taxed
A seemingly abandoned vehicle should only be reported if the vehicle is untaxed.
Please check if a vehicle is taxed.
Our response
- we aim to respond to reports of abandoned vehicles within two working days
- we will try to contact the owner
- we will contact the police who will investigate whether the vehicle has been involved in a crime
Nuisance vehicle
Nuisance vehicles can be reported to us if the following circumstances apply:
- two or more vehicles are advertised for sale within 500 metres of each other on a public highway
- vehicles are being repaired on a public highway as part of a business.
Alternatively you can call the Police on 101.