surreywaste.info

Abandoned Cars

Abandoned vehicles are often an eyesore, can cause pollution, and are a nuisance.  However, more importantly they can be dangerous especially if burnt out due to the residue of dangerous chemicals arising from a fire.

A vehicle is classified as abandoned:

  • If it has not been moved for a significant period of time
  • If the Vehicle Excise Duty (Road Tax) has expired.
  • If the owner or the keeper cannot be identified, or fails to respond to a legal notice

A vehicle cannot be regarded as abandoned only because of its condition or appearance and/or the fact that it has not been moved for some weeks. To remove and dispose of a vehicle of which the owner has been identified, and who has confirmed responsibility for the vehicle, would be regarded as theft of private property.

It is an offence to abandon a vehicle and can result in a fine of up to £2500 if convicted plus the costs of the removal, disposal and any storage of the vehicle.

Once classed as abandoned, the removal process can take a few days. Removing abandoned vehicles from roads is a service provided by your district or borough council.

If the vehicle is abandoned on private property you should inform the landowner (ask locally, or try the Land Registry). If you find a vehicle abandoned on land owned by Surrey County Council (e.g. fire stations, schools, libraries,) please report it to our contact centre on 08456 009 009.

You can find further information from: