Report Abandoned Vehicles - Saint Paul City Bylaw

Transportation Minnesota 3 Minutes Read · published February 09, 2026 Flag of Minnesota

In Saint Paul, Minnesota, abandoned vehicles create public-safety, parking, and nuisance problems. This guide explains how residents and property owners can report abandoned vehicles and request removal under Saint Paul municipal practice, who enforces removal, what sanctions may apply, and the practical steps to follow so the city can investigate and act promptly.

You can report abandoned vehicles online or by phone to the city for investigation.

What counts as an abandoned vehicle

An abandoned vehicle typically is one left unattended for an extended time, inoperable, visibly damaged, lacking current plates, or otherwise left on public property or private property without the owner’s consent. The city evaluates location, condition, and notices given to determine abandonment.

How to report an abandoned vehicle

Provide the vehicle location, license, color, make/model, visible damage, and photographs when available. Submit a report using the city’s parking enforcement complaint page or contact the Public Works parking unit by phone for immediate hazards.[1]

  • Call the city parking enforcement or non-emergency line to report urgent hazards.
  • Use the city’s online reporting form and attach photos when possible.
  • Document the vehicle with date-stamped photos and exact location details.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement responsibility generally lies with the City of Saint Paul parking enforcement and public-works authorities; removal, towing, and disposal processes are governed by municipal code and administrative rules available through the city code publisher.[2]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, vehicle tow and impound, disposal procedures, and court action may apply.
  • Enforcer: City of Saint Paul Parking Enforcement/Public Works; complaints and inspections are handled through the city reporting system.[1]
  • Appeal/review: methods to contest a tow or citation are governed by municipal procedure; specific time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences: permitted use, active registration, proof of ownership, or valid repair-in-progress status may affect enforcement discretion.
Towed vehicles may incur storage and towing charges in addition to any fines or penalties.

Applications & Forms

No single standard permit is required to report an abandoned vehicle; reporting is typically by complaint form or phone and any towing, impound, or release forms are provided by the towing/impound operator or listed in city procedures. Specific form names, fees, and deadlines are not specified on the cited page.

How-To

  1. Identify the vehicle location, license plate (if present), make, model, color, and any damages; take date-stamped photos.
  2. Submit an online report or call the City of Saint Paul parking enforcement with the information collected.
  3. If the vehicle is on private property, provide owner authorization or property management contact when reporting.
  4. If towed, contact the listed impound operator promptly to learn release requirements and fees.
Keep a personal record of reports and photos to support any appeal or claim for damages.

FAQ

How do I report an abandoned vehicle in Saint Paul?
Call the city parking enforcement or submit the online abandoned-vehicle report with full location details and photos; city contact information is on the parking enforcement page.[1]
How long before a reported vehicle is removed?
Removal timelines depend on investigation, notices provided, and whether the vehicle is on public or private property; specific removal timeframes are not specified on the cited page.
Will I be charged if my vehicle is towed as abandoned?
Towing and storage fees are typically charged by the towing company in addition to any municipal fines; exact fee amounts are not specified on the cited page.

Key Takeaways

  • Report with clear location and photos to speed enforcement.
  • Parking Enforcement/Public Works handles complaints and inspections.
  • Appeals and releases follow municipal and impound procedures; check the cited pages for local process details.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Saint Paul - Parking Enforcement and reporting
  2. [2] Saint Paul Code of Ordinances - municipal code publisher

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