Abandoned, untaxed or nuisance vehicles

We work to keep streets safe and clear by removing vehicles that are abandoned, untaxed, or causing a nuisance.

Report a vehicle

To report an abandoned or untaxed vehicle:

Report it online

To report a nuisance vehicle, please call the number above.

What happens next

If a vehicle is found to be: abandoned or untaxed on the public highway it may be removed by our enforcement team. We will seek authorisation from the DVLA to dispose of the vehicle, which usually means it will be crushed.

Fees and recovery

If your untaxed vehicle is removed:

  • you must pay release and storage fees
  • a surety fee is also required, refundable upon proof of valid tax (within a time limit)

If the vehicle is not claimed, we will request permission from the DVLA to destroy it.

Notice of seizure

Vehicles seized under:

  • section 5 of the Control of Pollution (Amendment) Act 1989
  • section 34B of the Environmental Protection Act 1990

are listed on our Notice of Seized Vehicle page

Reclaiming a seized vehicle

To reclaim your vehicle, please call 01429 523100. You will need to provide the vehicle registration document (V5C/log book) and valid ID. 

  • do this before the 15-day notice expires
  • if verified, a Notice of Determination will be issued and the vehicle returned within 10 days

If the vehicle is being retained for legal reasons, such as an on-going investigation or forfeiture proceedings, this will be stated in the Notice of Determination.