Found an abandoned vehicle in Phoenix? The process for getting it removed depends on one critical factor: is the vehicle on public property (a city street) or private property (your parking lot, HOA community, or commercial property)? Each situation has a different path to resolution.
Abandoned Vehicle on a Public Street in Phoenix
If the abandoned vehicle is parked on a city street, sidewalk, or other public right-of-way, the City of Phoenix handles removal through its Neighborhood Services Department.
How to Report
- 1Call Phoenix 311: Dial 602-262-6251 (Phoenix 311) or 602-262-7844 (Neighborhood Services) to file a report. You will need the vehicle location, description, license plate (if visible), and how long it has been there.
- 2Use the Phoenix 311 App: Download the PHX 311 app (available for iOS and Android) and submit an abandoned vehicle report with photos. This is often the fastest method.
- 3Report Online: Visit phoenix.gov/311 and submit your report through the city website.
What Happens Next
After you file a report, a city inspector visits the location to assess the vehicle. If it qualifies as abandoned, they place a 48-hour removal notice on the windshield. If the vehicle is not moved within 48 hours, the city schedules it for towing to a city impound facility. The entire process from report to removal typically takes 5-10 business days.
Heads Up: City Process Can Be Slow
The City of Phoenix processes hundreds of abandoned vehicle reports each month. During busy periods, the timeline from report to removal can stretch to 2-3 weeks. If the vehicle is on private property, you do not need to go through the city at all — a private towing company can handle it much faster.
Abandoned Vehicle on Private Property in Phoenix
If the abandoned vehicle is on your private property — apartment complex, HOA community, commercial parking lot, or any property you own or manage — you have a faster and more direct option.
- 1Call a Licensed Towing Company: Contact Axle Towing at 480-288-5526. We can assess the vehicle and often remove it the same day.
- 2We Handle Everything: Our team documents the vehicle, tows it to our secure impound yard, notifies law enforcement, and handles all owner notification and lien processing.
- 3You Pay Nothing: Under Arizona's PPI model, all costs are recovered from the vehicle owner. Property owners never pay for abandoned vehicle removal.
Public vs. Private Property: Quick Comparison
| Factor | Public Street | Private Property |
|---|---|---|
| Who to call | City of Phoenix 311 | Axle Towing: 480-288-5526 |
| Typical timeline | 5-10+ business days | Same day or next day |
| Cost to you | Free (taxpayer-funded) | Free (PPI model) |
| Who handles it | City inspectors and contractors | Your towing partner |
| Signage required | No | Yes — at vehicle entrances |
Key Phoenix Contact Numbers
- Phoenix 311 (General)602-262-6251
- Neighborhood Services602-262-7844
- Phoenix Police (Non-Emergency)602-262-6151
- Axle Towing (Private Property)480-288-5526
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the phone number to report an abandoned vehicle in Phoenix?
For abandoned vehicles on public streets, call the City of Phoenix Neighborhood Services at 602-262-7844. For abandoned vehicles on private property, call a licensed towing company like Axle Towing at 480-288-5526 for immediate free removal.
How long does the City of Phoenix take to remove an abandoned vehicle?
The City of Phoenix typically places a 48-hour notice on the vehicle. If it is not moved within that period, the city may tow it. The entire process from report to removal can take 5-10 business days or longer depending on caseload.
Can I report an abandoned vehicle online in Phoenix?
Yes. The City of Phoenix allows you to report abandoned vehicles through the Phoenix 311 app or the city website at phoenix.gov/311. However, this only applies to vehicles on public streets, not private property.
What happens after I report an abandoned vehicle to the city?
A city inspector will visit the location, assess the vehicle, and place a 48-hour removal notice on it if it qualifies as abandoned. If the vehicle is not moved within 48 hours, the city schedules it for towing to a city impound lot.
Abandoned Vehicle on Your Property?
Axle Towing & Impound provides free abandoned vehicle removal for property owners across Phoenix. Same-day service available.