Abandoned Vehicles

Per Idaho Code, any vehicle (i. e. automobile, motorcycle, boat, RV, trailer, etc.) that has been left within the limits of a highway, or upon private property without consent of the property owner for at least twenty-four hours (24) hours is an abandoned vehicle.

IMPOUND COMPLIANCE FAQ

A vehicle is not considered abandoned if its registered owner/operator is unable to remove it from its current location and has notified law enforcement and requested assistance.

Please call 208-570-6120 with any questions or assistance you may have.


Report an Abandoned Vehicle

To report an abandoned vehicle, please provide the following information:

  • A detailed description of the vehicle including the make, model, color and any distinguishing features (e. g. missing license plates, shredded tires, missing or broken windows/doors, etc.)
  • The vehicle’s license plate state and number (if the vehicle has plates)
  • The vehicle's location (include cross streets and nearby addresses)
  • The length of time the vehicle has been parked without moving
  • *Vehicles abandoned on private property with proper signage can contact a tow company and don’t need to fill out this Report an Abandoned Vehicle form.

The city has recently launched a new system that allows you to report abandoned vehicles online. First time users will need to set up an account. After you login, simply click the "Request" menu, and select "Abandoned Vehicle." We will respond to your report as soon as possible depending on other calls for service. Thank you for your patience and be assured we will get to your report.

REPORT VEHICLE

How Abandoned Vehicle Reports Are Handled

Respond

We send an officer to the location provided by the reporting party. Once the officer arrives, they examine the vehicle, check to see if it has been reported stolen, and mark it to assess whether it truly is abandoned. The officer will label the vehicle with a notice stating that if not moved within 48 hours, the vehicle will be towed.

Review

An officer will return to the location of the marked vehicle to review the situation at least 48 hours after the initial response. If the vehicle has been moved, the City of Boise cannot legally determine the vehicle to be abandoned, and it may not be towed. However, if the markings indicate the vehicle has remained in the same place, the vehicle will be deemed abandoned.

Resolve

Once deemed abandoned, a tow company licensed to perform non-consent tows will take the vehicle to their impound lot. The City of Boise will send an official notice to the vehicle’s current registered owner with instructions about claiming their vehicle.

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