An abandoned car or other vehicle may:

• Not have a current vehicle excise licence (road tax disc)
• Be burnt out
• Be severely damaged or have missing parts
• Not belong to the keeper shown on the Police National Computer
• Have a current vehicle excise license (Road Tax disc) but there is reasonably held belief that the vehicle is abandoned

Please report an abandoned vehicle if you see one you suspect has been dumped.

On receipt of a report, we will visit the scene as soon as possible and if the vehicle has been abandoned will attach a notice requesting that it be removed within:

• 24 hours if the vehicle is burnt out, has no registration plates or is blocking the public highway
• 7 days if it is on (but not blocking) a public highway

General information

The dumping of unwanted, untaxed, MOT failed vehicles is a nationwide occurrence. Dumped cars and other vehicles represent a danger to public safety, are a focal point for anti-social behaviour and detract from the natural beauty of the area.

However, care must be taken when dealing with motor vehicles which are legally parked and have a current Vehicle Excise Licence but the keeper cannot be contacted. There may be a legitimate reason for this, such as they are away on holiday, in hospital etc.

When a vehicle is left on private land the council needs a letter from the landowner giving permission to go on to their land. Once this has been received, the same process for an abandoned vehicle on the highway will apply. A charge of £50 plus VAT will be made against the landowner to cover the costs of administration, recovery and disposal of the vehicle.

In Christchurch and East Dorset the councils have joined forces with the Dorset Police (01202 486333) under the Community Safety Partnership. This enables both parties to use their limited resources more effectively in the prompt removal of abandoned vehicles. 

What to do if you have a car you no longer want or need

You should dispose of your car responsibly to a registered Authorised Treatment Facility, you can find the nearest recycling facility that recycles your brand of vehicle by searching online. There are many companies who will collect vehicles from you (which should be free of charge) and recycle them or sell them for parts. Contact your local council for more information.

You must ensure that when selling or disposing of a car you complete the appropriate DVLA forms to prove you have disposed of the vehicle in the correct, legal fashion.

Report an abandoned vehicle now.