How to Report an Abandoned Car in Berkeley

A lesser-known fact about parking in Berkeley is that the city limits the parking or storage of any type of vehicle on Berkeley streets to 72 hours — even for vehicle owners with Residential Preferential Parking, regardless of parking designations and restrictions. 

Berkeley police tend not to enforce the rule unless a complaint is made, according to Berkeley City Council Member Gordon Wozniak, but it does happen.

So, if there's an unfamiliar car, truck  or bike on your street that looks suspicious and has been hanging around for more than three days — it might be time to let the Berkeley Police Department know.

Residents can report vehicles that they believe to be abandoned by calling BPD's non-emergency dispatch line at 510-981-5900. The line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

But before you file a report, be aware that the vehicle will likely be towed and the owner incur a hefty fee. If the auto ends up belonging to a neighbor who is on vacation, or someone's relatives from out of town — they might not appreciate a trip to the tow lot and a police fine, which can total thousands of dollars.

To determine if the car is indeed abandoned, check the following:

•Is the vehicle unused or inoperable?
•Is it in a state of disrepair?
•Are major components missing?
•Does the vehicle have flat tires?
•Does the vehicle have expired or missing license plates?

According to the Berkeley Municipal Code, it's also illegal for auto repair shops and mechanics to park a car in "a state of disrepair" or do repairs on any public street, with emergency repairs the exception. 

Have you ever had a car towed because of the "72-hour rule"? Let us know in the comments.