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Dealing with an abandoned vehicle in Maryland can be frustrating, whether it’s cluttering your driveway or taking up space on a public street. The Maryland abandoned vehicle removal process on public and private property follows specific rules, and the steps differ depending on where the car is parked.
As of 2026, Maryland law requires a 48-hour notice for private property removals, while public property cases often involve law enforcement. Knowing which process applies to your situation is the first step to resolving the issue.
Quick Answer
The Maryland abandoned vehicle removal process on public and private property starts with identifying the vehicle as abandoned. On public property, law enforcement typically handles removal. On private property, the owner must post a 48-hour notice before towing.
Fees and reclamation rules apply if the owner retrieves the vehicle later.
Is the Vehicle Actually Abandoned? (Maryland’s Legal Definition)
Maryland defines an abandoned vehicle as one left unattended on public or private property for at least 48 hours without the owner’s permission. This includes cars with expired tags, inoperable vehicles, or those missing registration.
A vehicle isn’t automatically abandoned just because it’s parked for a while. It must show signs of neglect, like flat tires, broken windows, or no valid registration.
Quick Answer: Who Handles Removal on Public vs. Private Property
Public property removals are usually managed by local law enforcement or the Maryland State Police. They’ll tag the vehicle and arrange for towing if it remains unattended.
On private property, the owner must follow Maryland’s notice requirements before towing. This means posting a visible notice on the vehicle and waiting the required time.
Maryland’s Abandoned Vehicle Laws at a Glance
Maryland’s laws are outlined in the Maryland Vehicle Code, Title 25, Subtitle 2. These rules cover how and when vehicles can be removed from both public and private spaces.
Key points include the 48-hour notice for private property and the role of law enforcement on public roads. Local counties may have additional ordinances, so it’s worth checking with your city or county government.
Step-by-Step Removal Process on Public Property
If you spot an abandoned vehicle on a public street or lot, report it to your local police department or the Maryland State Police. They’ll verify the vehicle’s status and determine if it meets the legal definition of abandoned.
Once confirmed, law enforcement will post a notice on the vehicle, giving the owner a set period to claim it. If the vehicle isn’t moved, it will be towed to an impound lot.
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After towing, the owner has 30 days to reclaim the vehicle by paying towing and storage fees. If unclaimed, the vehicle may be sold at auction or scrapped.
Step-by-Step Removal Process on Private Property
As a property owner, you can’t just tow a vehicle parked on your land without notice. Maryland requires you to post a written notice on the vehicle, stating it will be towed if not removed within 48 hours.
The notice must include:
- A description of the vehicle (make, model, color, license plate)
- The reason for removal (abandoned, unauthorized parking)
- Contact information for the towing company or property owner
After 48 hours, if the vehicle remains, you can arrange for a licensed towing company to remove it. Keep a copy of the notice and photos of the vehicle as proof of compliance.
Notice Requirements: What You Must Do Before Towing
Maryland law requires a written notice posted on the vehicle before removal from private property. This notice must include the vehicle description, reason for towing, and contact information for the property owner or towing company.
The notice must remain on the vehicle for at least 48 hours before towing can occur. If the vehicle is moved during this period, the process stops.
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For public property, law enforcement typically handles the notice process. They’ll tag the vehicle and give the owner a set time to claim it before towing.
How Owners Can Reclaim a Towed Vehicle in Maryland
Owners have 30 days to reclaim a towed vehicle by paying all towing and storage fees. These fees vary by towing company but typically start around $100 for the tow and $20, $50 per day for storage.
To reclaim the vehicle, the owner must provide proof of ownership, such as the title or registration. They’ll also need to pay any outstanding fees in full before the vehicle is released.
If the vehicle isn’t claimed within 30 days, it may be sold at auction or scrapped. The towing company can place a lien on the vehicle to cover unpaid fees.
What Happens to Unclaimed Abandoned Vehicles?
After 30 days, unclaimed vehicles are typically sold at public auction. The proceeds first cover towing and storage fees, with any remaining funds going to the vehicle owner if they can be located.
If the vehicle is in poor condition and not worth auctioning, it may be scrapped or donated. The towing company must follow Maryland’s regulations for disposal.
The state keeps records of auctioned vehicles. Owners can sometimes recover funds if their vehicle was sold, but this depends on the specific circumstances.
Costs Involved: Towing, Storage, and Fees
Towing fees in Maryland usually range from $100 to $300, depending on the vehicle size and towing distance. Daily storage fees add up quickly, often costing $20, $50 per day.
If the vehicle isn’t claimed, the towing company can sell it to recoup costs. Any excess funds from the sale are held for the owner, but they must claim them within a set period.
Property owners should confirm fees with their chosen towing company before removal. Some companies charge additional fees for after-hours towing or special equipment.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Legal Trouble
One major mistake is towing without proper notice. Maryland requires the 48-hour notice for private property, and skipping this step can result in legal liability.
Another issue is failing to document the process. Always take photos of the vehicle and the posted notice before towing. This protects you if the owner disputes the removal.
Finally, using an unlicensed towing company can cause problems. Maryland requires towing companies to be licensed, and using an unlicensed operator may invalidate the removal.
County-Specific Rules You Need to Know
Baltimore City has its own abandoned vehicle ordinance that may be stricter than state law. The city requires a 72-hour notice for private property removals instead of the standard 48 hours.
Montgomery County and Prince George’s County follow state law but may have additional reporting requirements. Always check with your local government or police department for the most current rules.
Some rural areas have less strict enforcement. However, the state’s 48-hour notice rule still applies unless local law says otherwise.
When to Call the Police vs. a Private Towing Company
Call the police for vehicles on public roads, in parking lots, or blocking fire hydrants. Law enforcement has the authority to remove these immediately if they pose a safety hazard.
For private property, you’ll need to use a licensed towing company. The police won’t remove a vehicle from your driveway unless it’s part of a criminal investigation.
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If you’re unsure whether the vehicle is on public or private land, contact your local police non-emergency line. They can clarify jurisdiction and next steps.
FAQs About Maryland’s Abandoned Vehicle Process
How long before a car is considered abandoned in Maryland?
A vehicle is considered abandoned after 48 hours on private property without permission. On public property, the timeline can vary but is often similar.
Can I tow a car parked on my property without notice?
No. Maryland requires a 48-hour written notice before towing from private property. Skipping this step can lead to legal trouble.
What happens if the owner doesn’t reclaim the vehicle?
After 30 days, the towing company can sell the vehicle at auction to cover fees. Any remaining funds may go to the owner if they’re located.
Do I need a lawyer to remove an abandoned vehicle?
Not usually. Following the proper notice and towing procedures protects you legally. However, if the owner disputes the removal, consulting a lawyer may help.
Are there fees for reporting an abandoned vehicle?
No. Reporting an abandoned vehicle to the police or local authorities is free. Fees only apply if you’re the one towing the vehicle from private property.
