Abandoned RVs, boats, and trailers are a growing problem across the Phoenix metro area. These oversized vehicles take up multiple parking spaces, create sight-line obstructions, and are particularly difficult to deal with because of their size. If you are a property owner, HOA board member, or property manager dealing with an abandoned RV, boat, or trailer, Axle Towing can help.
Why Abandoned RVs Are a Bigger Problem
Abandoned RVs create challenges that go beyond a standard abandoned car. They take up 2-4 parking spaces instead of one. They block sight lines for pedestrian and vehicle traffic. They can become shelter for unauthorized persons. They leak fluids, have propane tanks, and create fire hazards. They are more expensive and difficult to tow, which means some towing companies refuse to handle them. Arizona's extreme heat accelerates deterioration, creating additional safety concerns.
Types of Oversized Vehicles We Remove
Axle Towing handles removal of all types of oversized abandoned vehicles: Class A, B, and C motorhomes (RVs), travel trailers and fifth-wheel trailers, boat trailers with or without boats, utility trailers, flatbed trailers, enclosed cargo trailers, horse trailers, and commercial trailers.
Arizona Law and RVs on Private Property
The same Arizona statutes that govern abandoned cars also apply to RVs, boats, and trailers. Under ARS 28-3511, any unauthorized vehicle — including oversized vehicles — can be removed from private property with proper signage. Many HOA CC&Rs have specific provisions restricting RV and boat storage within the community, giving boards additional authority to enforce removal.
How RV Removal Works
Removing an abandoned RV requires specialized equipment and expertise. Axle Towing has heavy-duty tow trucks capable of handling vehicles up to 26,000 lbs. Our drivers are trained in oversized vehicle recovery and transport. We follow the same legal process as standard abandoned vehicles — documentation, removal, law enforcement notification, owner notification, and lien processing if unclaimed.
Cost for Property Owners: Still Zero
Even though RV removal requires more specialized equipment and effort, the cost to property owners is still zero under Arizona's PPI model. The vehicle owner pays all fees when they retrieve their RV. If the RV goes unclaimed, the towing company recovers costs through the lien and disposition process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an HOA have an abandoned RV towed?
Yes. If the RV violates your CC&Rs (most HOAs restrict RV parking and storage) and you have proper towing signage, the HOA can authorize the removal. Axle Towing works with HOA boards across the Phoenix metro to handle oversized vehicle removal.
What if the abandoned RV is too large for a standard tow truck?
Axle Towing operates heavy-duty tow trucks capable of handling Class A motorhomes and large trailers up to 26,000 lbs. We have the equipment to handle any size vehicle.
Is abandoned boat removal free for property owners?
Yes. Abandoned boat and trailer removal follows the same PPI model as car removal. Property owners pay nothing. The boat owner is responsible for all fees.
Need Help?
Axle Towing & Impound provides free abandoned vehicle removal for property owners across the Phoenix metro area. Call us today.