Report an abandoned vehicle
If you suspect a vehicle has been abandoned, first check to see if it has road tax, a valid MOT and what make of vehicle it is on
gov.uk (opens new window).
What is an abandoned vehicle?
A vehicle may be considered abandoned if it:
- has no registered keeper on the DVLA's database and/ or is untaxed,
- without MOT,
- or subject of a Statutory Off Road Notice
- has been stationary for a significant amount of time
- is burnt out
- is significantly damaged, run down, hazardous or unroadworthy, for example, has flat tyres, missing wheels and or broken windows or other hazards
- number plates are missing
What happens after you report a vehicle?
We will:
- try to contact the owner if they can be identified
- place a notice on the vehicle if needed, warning that it may be removed
- remove the vehicle without notice in some situations
Removed vehicles may be stored, sold or destroyed depending on their condition.
The owner may receive a fine and will have to pay any costs for removing and storing the vehicle.
How to report an abandoned vehicle?
- if the vehicle is on a public road with no tax (and no other issues) report it on gov.uk (opens new window)
- if the vehicle is on a public road with a SORN (and no other issues) report it on gov.uk (opens new window)
- if the vehicle is on a public road with other problems, or on private land, housing land or open land accessible to the public: report it with our online form (opens new window)
- if the vehicle is blocking a road or footpath: Contact the police on 101
- if the vehicle is on fire or being vandalised: Call the police on 999
Make sure you know the location of the car, the street name and postcode, and how long it has been there for. You will need the vehicle's make, model, colour and registration number. You can add a photo of the vehicle to the form.