by John Paul
January 24, 2012
All across America, more and more cities and towns are passing ordinances that regulate the outdoor storage of inoperable motor vehicles. Some state statutes and local laws even provide for the removal and confiscation of privately-owned vehicles broadly defined as abandoned or “junked”—and that includes parts-cars and backyard restoration-in-the-works projects. To better know the laws impacting inoperable vehicles in your state, check out this new, online resource from the Historic Vehicle Association.
We all want to contribute to the beautification of our cities and towns. But, unfortunately, what distinguishes a collectible or something of value from ordinary junk isn’t always clear. In many areas, inoperable historic vehicles, parts cars, and driveway restoration projects are seen as nothing more than public eyesores that adversely affect property values and residential character.
Many cities and towns have decided to crack down with ambiguous ordinances defining what an inoperable or abandoned vehicle really is. Other local laws set time constraints on how long an “inoperable” vehicle can be parked on a driveway or city street. And some townships and cities outlaw outdoor storage of these vehicles entirely, promising to confiscate any vehicle in violation of the law.
Protect yourself and your investment by knowing your local law and how zoning officials view inoperable vehicles. To help historic vehicle owners become more informed—and, subsequently, more empowered—the HVA has assembled the beginnings of a comprehensive information resource of local ordinances for larger municipalities across the country.
While we have a fair number of inoperative vehicle statues and laws currently listed, we are looking for HVA members help to fill in the missing pieces. So please click here to check out this new and important resource. If you don’t see your town or city on the list, please contact us at legislative@historicvehicle.org to clue us in on the law in your area; the HVA legislation team will be happy to add it accordingly.