Abandoned vehicles on public land
Legitimate reasons for a car being left
There may be legitimate reasons why a car has been left somewhere, for example, the:
- owners are visiting a relative
- owners are sick or in hospital
- owners are on holiday
- vehicle has broken down
- vehicle has been in an accident and is waiting to be collected by insurers
- owner does not need to use the vehicle at present. In these circumstances, as long as the vehicle is taxed and legally parked, no further action would be taken
Inconsiderate, nuisance or illegal parking will not be investigated as an abandoned vehicle.
Abandoned vehicles on private land
If an abandoned vehicle is on private land, you must report it to the landowner before we can act. For more information, visit our abandoned cars on private land webpage.
When to report a vehicle to the DVLA
If the vehicle is untaxed or SORN and in good condition, you must report it to the DVLA.
When to report a vehicle to the police
Some vehicle issues must be reported to the police by calling 101. This includes vehicles that:
- are parked dangerously
- are causing an obstruction
- you suspect have been stolen
- have been set on fire or burnt out
- have no MOT and is being used on a road
When to report a vehicle to us
We can only investigate an abandoned vehicle if it meets at least one of the following criteria:
- it's been at the location for a minimum of 12 weeks
- it's in poor condition
- it's become the target of vandalism or anti-social behaviour
You can use our online form to report an abandoned vehicle.
How to dispose of an old car
Scrap your car
Visit GOV.UK for information about how to scrap your vehicle.
You can also scrap your car using car.co.uk.
End of life vehicles
Car owners are entitled to free take-back of their old vehicles, known as End of Life Vehicles (ELVs). Visit GOV.UK for guidance about ELVs.
Car manufacturers have established national networks of existing facilities that will accept their own brands when those vehicles reach the end of their lives. These regulations mean car owners do not need to pay to dispose of their vehicles.
Donate your car to charity
If your car is still roadworthy, you can donate it to charity via the following organisations: