Abandoned Vehicles
Dear Reader
There are currently no vehicles on offer for sale.
Definition - If a vehicle is left on a public road or public place, or on local government land for not less than 24 hours, an authorised person may have the vehicle removed to an appropriate place.
Q: How will Council establish ownership of the vehicle?
A: Identification of ownership is established through Transport SA Registration & Licencing records.
Q: How does Council contact an owner, particularly if there has been a recent change of address?
A: As soon as practicable after removal of the vehicle Council must give to the owner of the vehicle written notice of the removal and the place to which the vehicle was removed. If the owner is unknown or cannot be found, notice may be given by advertisement in a newspaper circulating generally in the state.
Q: Is there a penalty?
A: A person who abandons a vehicle or farm implement on a public road or public place is guilty of an offence:- Maximum penalty $5000 / Expiation Fee $315.
Q: Who pays the costs?
A: If the owner of the vehicle does not within 14 days after the service or advertisement of the notice, pay all associated expenses with the removal, custody and maintenance of the vehicle, and the serving or advertising the notice, and take possession of the vehicle, the Council must sell the vehicle and apply the proceeds in an approved manner.
Q: What if there are not enough proceeds from the sale of the vehicle?
A: The owner of the vehicle is liable to Council for any costs incurred in the removal and disposal of the vehicle. The Council may recover from the owner, the balance of those expenses that have not been satisfied by proceeds from the sale of the vehicle, as a debt due to it.
Q: Can I buy an abandoned vehicle?
A: Yes, vehicles not claimed by their owners are offered for sale by tender at various times of the year. Check Council's web site for current abandoned vehicle tenders.
Any further information may be obtained by contacting the Council's Ranger Services on 8408 0400 during normal office hours.
