Abandoned Vehicle Complaint
The Palo Alto Municipal Code requires that any vehicle parked on a public street be driven at least one-half mile every 72 hours, even if it re-parks in the same location. If you would like to report a vehicle that you believe is violating this ordinance by remaining parked for more than 72 hours without driving, please complete the form below.
If you'd prefer, you can also leave this information on our recorded Abandoned Vehicle Hotline at (650) 329-2258.
What Happens After You Submit This Form?
When we receive a complaint (we receive over 1,200 such complaints City-wide annually), our Community Service Officers respond and place a warning notice on the vehicle with the details of the law. Placing this written notice is required by the Municipal Code. We then return 72 hours later and take enforcement action as appropriate. This could include a citation, a tow, or both. In our experience, though, the vast majority of the vehicle owners will comply with the law once they receive the warning notice.
In March 2021, the City published an article explaining the Police Department's enforcement of this law, how we work with other City departments to provide resources to those in need, and how we strive to balance public health and safety concerns while compassionately supporting those who may be living in their vehicles. The information contained in this article is still current as of today:
Read "Parking Issues on El Camino Real:
A Complex Community Issue"
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