Report an abandoned vehicle

We are able to investigate and remove abandoned vehicles.

We are able to investigate and remove abandoned vehicles that have been illegally left by their owners on council owned land and not been used for a period of time.

This does not include vehicles being stored or used by the owner on the public highway. If the vehicle is on private land - we will require the land owners confirmation that the vehicle is not permitted to be there. If this is the case please provide this information as part of the form.

Important: Reports we will not investigate

  • Roadworthy, legally parked vehicle if reported within six weeks of first parking.
  • Reports about vehicles that are legally parked and show no indication of abandonment

You should contact the police if a vehicle is:

  • Obstructing the public highway.
  • A hazard to road users.

What is an abandoned vehicle

A vehicle may be considered abandoned if it meets one or more of the following criteria:

  • Has not moved for a significant period of time (a minimum of six weeks without moving) - please provide date first seen. Date stamped photographs showing vehicle being parked for six weeks will be required.
  • Appears damaged, burnt out or unroadworthy ( e.g. flat tyres, smashed windows).
  • Has no number plates or is untaxed.

Report an abandoned vehicle

Information you need to provide

  • Vehicle Details : Make, model, colour and registration number.
  • Location: Street name, postcode or nearest landmark.
  • Condition: Signs of damage, missing parts or vandalism.
  • How Long: First seen, how long has vehicle been there.
  • Photographs: Date stamped as above.

Report an abandoned vehicle

What happens next?

To avoid any damage to reported vehicles we do not place any form of notice on the vehicle until all proper checks have been processed.

A seven days notice will then be placed on  the windscreen.

Once reported we will:

  • Inspect the vehicle and asses whether it meets the criteria for abandonment.
  • Attempt to contact the registered keeper (if identifiable).
  • If necessary, issue a notice and and arrange for removal. 
  • Dispose of the vehicle if unclaimed, in accordance with Government guidelines.
  • This process in total will take a minimum of 12 weeks to complete and no updates will be provided during this time.
For further information, please contact us:
Email
highways@rbwm.gov.uk
Address

Highways Team
Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead
Town Hall
St Ives Road
Maidenhead
SL6 1RF
United Kingdom