Abandoned Vehicles

Herefordshire Council aims to keep the number of abandoned vehicles to a minimum and as such welcomes public co-operation.  We also aim to provide a swift and efficient service when reports are received.

What is an abandoned vehicle

Whilst there is no legal definition of an abandoned vehicle, common to most cases will be one or more of the following characteristics:

• It has been stationary for a significant amount of time (it appears that it is not being used)
• It does not have a valid tax disc
• It has one or more flat tyres
• There are weeds / litter etc surrounding the vehicle
• The brake discs are rusty (clearly demonstrating the vehicle is unused)
• It has a broken windscreen / windows, or other damage indicating that it is unroadworthy  
• There appears to be mould on the inside / outside of the vehicle
• There is a presence of waste inside the vehicle
• The vehicle doesn't have any number plates

As a local authority, we have a duty of care under Section 3 of the Refuse Disposal (Amenity) Act 1978, to remove any vehicle that appears to have been abandoned within Herefordshire.  This includes vehicles on any land which is in the open or which forms part of the highway.  However, this may not include vehicles which have been abandoned on private land, although with the land owner's consent we are still able to remove these.  It is also under this same act that abandoning a vehicle is a criminal offence. 

When reporting an abandoned vehicle, we need to know:

• Where the vehicle is located
• The vehicle make, model, colour and registration number
• The expiry date of the tax disc (if displayed)
• The condition of the vehicle
• Approximately how long the vehicle has been there

If you identify a vehicle which is believed to have been abandoned, you can report it by calling 01432 261761 or by E-Mailing info@herefordshire.gov.uk. 

How to reclaim a vehicle

Community Protection Team Enforcement Officers have the power to remove a vehicle if they believe it to have been abandoned.  If we have removed your vehicle, you will need to provide evidence that the vehicle was not abandoned and that you are the legal registered owner / keeper.  If the vehicle has been placed into storage you will be required to pay any costs incurred by Herefordshire Council in removing and storing the vehicle before it is released to you.  If you are deemed to be responsible for abandoning a vehicle, you may also face prosecution.