Abandoned Vehicle Abatement
Online Abatement Request
Who can file a complaint?
Anyone who believes a vehicle is abandoned, wrecked, dismantled or inoperative, where the vehicle constitutes a public nuisance on private property. Vehicle components can also qualify as "abandoned."
How do I file a complaint, and what information will be needed?
Be prepared to give the call taker the address/location of the abandoned vehicle (or parts), the vehicle(s) description, and the length of time the problem has existed.
- Contact the AVA Officer at (530) 225-4296.
- Submit a complaint online.
- E-mail questions or comments to: Abandoned Vehicle Abatement Program
Am I required to identify myself when filing a complaint?
Your complaint can be confidential, however, we prefer to have your name and telephone number so we can contact you in an attempt to satisfy all parties involved.
Who will investigate my complaint?
An Abandoned Vehicle Abatement Officer from the Redding Police Department will respond, when available, to give a tow away warning notice.
What will happen after I make a complaint?
A tow away warning will be issued, and the following must be completed within 10 days:
- The vehicle must be made operational, or
- Stored inside a building or behind a solid six foot fence where it is not visible from the street or a neighbor's property, or
- If you have a clear title, the vehicle can be removed by selling it to a private party or to a licensed dismantler for disposal.
What needs to be done with the vehicle/parts to avoid having it towed?
A tow away warning will be issued, and the following must be completed within the time frame specified on the tow away warning:
- The vehicle must be made operational or moved from the location, or
- Stored inside a building or behind a solid six foot fence where it is not visible from the street or a neighbor's property, or
- If you have clear title to the vehicle, the vehicle can be removed by selling it either to a private party or to a liscensed auto dismantler for disposal.
Can someone fight a tow away warning?
Yes. If you have received a tow away warning, contact the investigating officer and let him/her know what you plan to do with the vehicle(s) or parts. You can request a public hearing within 10 days after a "Notice of Intent to Abate" letter is sent from the Redding Police Department to the registered/legal owner of the vehicle(s) through the California Department of Motor Vehicles and to the property owner.
Who pays for the removal of the vehicle?
There is NO cost to you to remove a vehicle from your property. The tow company who removes the vehicle will junk the vehicle. All paperwork will be filed by the Redding Police Department -- all we need is your signature.