To report an abandoned vehicle in Phoenix, you call the city or, if it sits on your property, file Form 46-4402 with ADOT MVD. ADOT does not tow. Law enforcement investigates and arranges removal.

The prima facie rules (ARS 28-4801)

  • 48 hours in a highway right of way.
  • 72 hours on public or private property.
  • A prima facie case is enough to start the process; the registered owner may still dispute.

What ADOT does and does not do

  • ADOT maintains the abandoned vehicle process. ADOT does not tow.
  • Law enforcement (Phoenix PD, Maricopa County Sheriff, city PD) investigates and arranges removal.
  • For state highways, ADOT coordinates with the appropriate agency.

If the car is on your property

  • Wait at least 10 days after it was left there.
  • File Abandoned Vehicle Application Form 46-4402 with ADOT MVD.
  • Pay the $10 non refundable filing fee.
  • MVD then notifies the registered owner and any lienholder, who have 30 days to reclaim.

If the car is on a Phoenix street

  • Call Phoenix Police non emergency: (602) 262-6151.
  • An officer will assess whether the car meets the prima facie threshold and tag it.
  • Removal is arranged by the city if the owner does not move it.

What you can do

  • Photograph the vehicle, the plate, the location, and the date you first noticed it.
  • Note any visible damage, hazards, or leaks.
  • Keep records of your communications.

What not to do

  • Do not move the vehicle yourself. That can be a trespass.
  • Do not block it in. Use the abandoned vehicle process.
  • Do not damage it.

For a police impound release (different from abandoned vehicle), see our Phoenix impound guide.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a car have to sit to be abandoned in Arizona?

48 hours in a highway right of way, 72 hours on public or private property (ARS 28-4801).

Does ADOT tow the car?

No. ADOT runs the paperwork and coordinates with law enforcement. Law enforcement arranges the tow.

What if the car is on my property and I want it gone now?

You cannot remove it yourself. File Form 46-4402 with ADOT MVD after 10 days. Pay the $10 fee. MVD notifies the owner and lienholder, who have 30 days to reclaim.

What if the car is leaking fluids or is a hazard?

Call 911 if the hazard is immediate. Otherwise call Phoenix Police non emergency (602) 262-6151 and report it as a hazard.

What is the ARS 28-4802 fee?

$500 registered owner liability for private property abandonment, $600 for federal or state park. Waivable with proof of sale or a police report. See what happens if you don’t pick up your car.