Abandoned Vehicles

Abandoned vehicles are an eyesore and a detriment to the area and environment they are found in. They can be dangerous and encourage antisocial behaviour. Fly tipped refuse and litter accumulates around and inside them.

Rochford District Council aim to remove abandoned vehicles as quickly as possible. There is a prescribed legal procedure that the Council must follow when dealing with these vehicles, and investigations must be completed to confirm the vehicle is actually abandoned. These investigations can take up to 15 working days.

What is an Abandoned Vehicle?

An abandoned vehicle is one that has been discarded by its owner/user in the open air, whether on or off the highway.

What should I do if I suspect a vehicle to be abandoned?

Report it to us!  Do not assume that it has already been reported.  Remember to note down details of the vehicle before you contact us.  We require:

• Registration number
• Make of vehicle
• Model
• Colour
• Condition
• Location
• Approximate length of time at location
• Vehicle owner details (if known)
• If you wish to be updated on the vehicle you have reported to us, please leave contact details.

Email: customerservices@rochford.gov.uk
Telephone: 01702 318111
Write to: Contracted Services, Rochford District
Council, South Street, Rochford, Essex SS4 1BW.

Please see the Related Links section to Report an abandoned vehicle online.

Untaxed vehicles

Untaxed vehicles are not necessarily abandoned. Rochford District Council does not remove vehicles simply because they are not taxed. That is a matter for the Police and Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA). We pass information onto them.  If you wish to report an untaxed vehicle, you may do this directly to DVLA local office at:

Swift House
18 Hoffmanns Way
Chelmsford
Essex
CM1 1GU

Telephone:  0300 790 6802

You can also report an untaxed vehicle on line - please see related links below.