What is an abandoned vehicle?

Due to the complexity and variety of problems relating to abandoned vehicles there is no sole definition currently used. The Refuse Disposal (Amenity) Act 1978 states that a vehicle is abandoned only “where it appears to a local authority that a motor vehicle in their area is abandoned without lawful authority....” As a result, a vehicle is deemed abandoned only when the authorised officer at the local authority decides that it is abandoned.

The term ‘vehicle’ in this context means any motor vehicle or trailer that forms part of a motor vehicle or trailer, including any item contained within it.

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Page last updated on: 24/11/2005