Impound Compliance FAQ

What is an abandoned vehicle?

Under IC §49-102, an abandoned vehicle is defined as 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. Examples of abandoned vehicles include any and all unauthorized vehicles that have been left on a public roadway.

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

I suspect a vehicle is abandoned on the street. Who do I contact?

To report an abandoned vehicle on the city street or in the public right-of-way, you must provide the following information in order for your request to be processed by Vehicle Impounds.

• A comprehensive 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 location of the vehicle (include cross streets and nearby addresses)
• The length of time the vehicle has been parked without moving
• Your contact information (name, address, and phone number)

The City of Boise now allows you to report abandoned vehicles online. First time users will need to set up an account. Please select "Reporting Party" when selecting "Contact Type."

1. Login here. First time user? You'll need to create an account.
2. After logging in, click "APPLY > CODE COMPLIANCE SERVICE REQUEST" in the top menu bar.

A vehicle was abandoned on my private property. Who do I contact?

If you suspect a vehicle is abandoned or unauthorized on private property, the property owner or person in control of the property must contact a licensed City of Boise non-consent tow company to arrange removal.

Under Idaho Code §49-1806, property owners or persons in control of real property may authorize removal of abandoned or unauthorized vehicles. On posted commercial property, vehicles may be removed or booted when proper signage is in place identifying unauthorized vehicle removal and the designated towing company. On non-commercial or unposted property, the property owner must contact a licensed tow company and complete required authorization forms for removal.

My vehicle was marked as abandoned and towed. How do I claim it?

If your vehicle has been marked as abandoned and towed, notices are sent through the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) to the registered owner and lienholder when applicable.

To locate your vehicle, you may contact Vehicle Impounds at (208) 570-6120 or Boise Police Non-Emergency Dispatch at (208) 377-6790 for assistance identifying the towing company.

Once located, you will need to contact the licensed City of Boise non-consent towing company that has your vehicle to arrange payment and release directly with them.

What if I sell a vehicle that is later abandoned by the new owner?

If you have not filed a Release of Liability Statement, as required by Idaho law after selling or transferring a vehicle, you may receive a citation and be held liable for the same penalties, in addition to the towing and storage charges (additionally, you can also be held liable for traffic accidents and parking tickets involving the vehicle).

Release of Liability forms are printed on the bottom of title certificates or on the back of vehicle registrations. They can also be found at your county assessor's motor vehicle office or online.

RELEASE OF LIABILITY FORM

Abandoned Bicycles

A bicycle, E-bike, E-scooter, or any part thereof, that is left or remains unattended or unused in a public place for seventy-two (72) consecutive hours is considered abandoned. 

REPORT

If you believe your bicycle may have been removed by the city, you can fill out the form below.

RETRIEVAL FORM 

To report your bike stolen, please contact non-emergency dispatch at (208) 377-6790 if you can provide suspect information. If you are unaware of the individual who took your bike, please make a report online and select “Lost Property”.

Report a Crime

My vehicle was towed to the city impound lot. How do I claim it?

To claim a vehicle impounded at the City lot, you must first verify that it has been cleared for release by contacting the Vehicle Impounds at (208) 570-6120. If the vehicle has been cleared for release, you may schedule an appointment for pickup with an officer.

Additionally, if the vehicle is in non-running condition, you are required to have the vehicle towed from the premises. For all releases, please bring valid photo identification, any tools needed (e.g. air compressor, jumper cables, etc.), spare keys (if keys are not accessible), or other items you feel are required as water and electricity are not available. If, for whatever reason, you cannot make it to your appointment at the scheduled time, please call (208) 570-6120 immediately and reschedule.

Can a vehicle be towed immediately?

The City of Boise may immediately tow under “extraordinary circumstances” in any situation where the vehicle:

• Blocks or impedes traffic
• Causes a hazard that has the potential of impeding any emergency vehicle.
• Impedes snow removal or other road maintenance
• Has been stolen, but not yet reported as recovered
• Is not registered or displays an expired license plate registration sticker
• Has been in an accident and remains on the highway
• The driver has been arrested

To report a vehicle that meets any of the above criteria, please contact non-emergency dispatch at (208) 377-6790.