Abandoned or unattended vehicles on public land can pose a safety risk and take up valuable space—but Council's powers to act depend on a few key factors.
Council Rangers can only impound vehicles located on Council-managed land. They cannot remove vehicles from private property or those that are still registered—unless certain risk-based conditions are met.
If a vehicle has been left for more than 3–4 days or appears to be abandoned or dangerously positioned, residents are encouraged to report it. Try to provide as many details as possible: registration number, make, model, location, and how long it's been there.
When a registered vehicle is reported, Council will notify the owner and give them 7 days to move it. If the vehicle is unregistered, Council may arrange for it to be removed—often to a wrecking yard, waste facility or the Police impounding yard.
NSW legislation sets specific timeframes for moving vehicles depending on their risk level:
- Immediately, if causing a safety hazard or obstruction
- 3 days, if unregistered, or registered but unable to be legally driven, and left unattended in one place for more than 15 days.
- 15 days, if registered and left unattended in one place for more than 28 days
Failure to comply can result in a $660 fine, or higher penalties if prosecuted in court.
This process applies to all types of vehicles left unattended in public areas, including trailers, caravans, and boat trailers.
The onus is on vehicle owners to ensure their property is parked legally, maintained, and not left in public spaces for extended periods.
Have a concern about an abandoned vehicle? Contact Council's Customer Service team to lodge a report for the Rangers at ksc.pub/Help
If your request is urgent, please phone our Customer Service team on 6566 3200.
