Abandoned Vehicles

Abandoned Vehicles – The Process and Why It Takes Time

We frequently receive complaints about vehicles that appear to be abandoned on public streets or private property. Many people assume police can immediately tow these vehicles, but Pennsylvania law and local ordinances require a specific process to protect the rights of the registered owner.

Before a vehicle can be removed, officers must verify ownership, check that the vehicle is not stolen, provide official notice to the owner, and allow legally required waiting periods. Because of these requirements, the process can take several weeks or sometimes longer before a vehicle can legally be towed.

Below is a simplified explanation of the process officers must follow.

Abandoned Vehicle Process (Public Streets / Public Property)

Step What Officers Do Why It Matters
1. Verify the Vehicle Officers run the registration through PennDOT, confirm the registered owner, check if the vehicle is stolen, and attempt to verify the VIN. Ensures the vehicle is not stolen and identifies the legal owner.
2. Tag the Vehicle An orange abandoned vehicle notice is placed on the driver-side window and the tire is marked to monitor movement. This provides legal notice and documents the vehicle’s position.
3. Initial Waiting Period The vehicle must remain unmoved for 72 hours before further enforcement can occur. Local ordinances require a waiting period before the process can continue.
4. Certified Notice to Owner If the vehicle has not moved, a certified letter is mailed to the registered owner notifying them to remove the vehicle. State law requires the owner be formally notified.
5. Owner Response Period The registered owner has up to 15 days after the certified notice to remove the vehicle. This ensures due process and protects property rights.
6. Tow Authorization If the vehicle is still not moved after the required notice period, police authorize the tow and complete required state paperwork. Proper documentation is required before a vehicle can legally be removed.

Abandoned Vehicles on Private Property

If a vehicle is left on someone else’s private property without the property owner’s consent for 24 hours or more, the property owner may request police assistance. Officers must still verify ownership and complete required state forms before the vehicle can be towed.

If you are the owner of a property and a vehicle is parked there without your permission, please fill out the Abandoned Vehicle on Private Property Report (MV-952PP) and submit it to the police.

Other Situations That May Qualify as an Abandoned Vehicle

  • A vehicle left unattended on a public street or public property for 72 hours or more
  • An unlicensed vehicle is in violation of the city ordinance
  • A truck, trailer, or semi-trailer parked unattached to a vehicle is prohibited
  • A vehicle stored on a public street for more than 72 hours

How You Can Help

If you believe a vehicle may be abandoned, please report it with as much information as possible to (570) 433-3166:

  • Vehicle description (make, model, color)
  • License plate number (if available)
  • Exact location
  • How long the vehicle has been sitting there

This helps officers start the process as quickly as possible.

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