Abandoned Car Removal from Your Property in Toronto: Legal Guide 2025

Dealing with Abandoned Vehicles on Your Property

Finding an abandoned car on your property is frustrating. Whether you're a homeowner, landlord, or business owner in Toronto, understanding the legal process for removal protects you from liability while resolving the situation quickly.

What Legally Constitutes an "Abandoned" Vehicle?

Under Ontario law, a vehicle is generally considered abandoned when:

• It's been left on private property without permission for 60+ days
• The owner cannot be located or contacted
• It shows signs of neglect (flat tires, expired plates, significant damage)
• It appears inoperable or unfit for road use
• No one has claimed ownership after reasonable attempts to contact them

Important: You cannot simply dispose of any vehicle on your property, even if abandoned. Ontario law requires specific steps to protect both your rights and the vehicle owner's rights.

Step-by-Step Legal Process for Abandoned Vehicle Removal

Step 1: Document Everything

Before taking any action, create a detailed record:

• Take photos from multiple angles (including license plates)
• Note the date you first noticed the vehicle
• Record the vehicle's condition
• Document any contact attempts with the owner
• Keep copies of all notices you provide

Step 2: Attempt to Identify and Contact the Owner

Make reasonable efforts to find the owner:

• Check for contact information inside the vehicle (if visible)
• If you know the previous tenant/owner, contact them
• Contact the Ministry of Transportation (they won't release owner info but can forward a message)
• Post a notice on the vehicle requesting removal

Step 3: Provide Formal Written Notice

If the owner is identified, provide written notice stating:

• Description of the vehicle (make, model, license plate)
• Your property address
• Deadline for removal (typically 14-30 days)
• Warning that failure to remove may result in disposal at owner's expense
• Your contact information

Send this notice via registered mail and regular mail. Keep copies of all correspondence.

Step 4: Contact Local Authorities

If the owner doesn't respond or can't be found:

• Contact Toronto Police non-emergency line (416-808-2222) to report the abandoned vehicle
• Police will check if the vehicle is stolen or wanted
• Request a police file number for your records
• Ask about next steps specific to your situation

Step 5: Legal Disposal After Proper Notice

Only after completing the above steps and waiting the required period can you arrange for removal. Contact a licensed scrap car removal company like Cash to Scrap to dispose of the vehicle properly.

Landlord-Specific Considerations

Tenant's Abandoned Vehicle

If a former tenant left a vehicle:

• Check your lease agreement for abandonment clauses
• Follow Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act guidelines
• Provide written notice to the tenant's last known address
• Wait the legally required period before disposal
• Document all steps in case of future disputes

Current Tenant's Non-Operational Vehicle

If a current tenant has an inoperable vehicle:

• Review lease terms about vehicle storage and maintenance
• Provide written notice of lease violations
• Give reasonable time to remove or repair the vehicle
• Follow proper eviction procedures if necessary

Business Property Owners

For businesses dealing with abandoned vehicles in parking lots:

• Post clear signs about parking policies and towing
• Document when vehicles exceed time limits
• Follow your stated towing policy consistently
• Contact police before removing to avoid liability
• Use licensed towing companies for all removals

Common Legal Pitfalls to Avoid

Never Remove a Vehicle Without Following Proper Procedures

Improper removal can result in:

• Criminal charges for theft
• Civil lawsuits from the vehicle owner
• Fines from municipal authorities
• Liability for damages to the vehicle

Don't Accept Money from Unlicensed Buyers

Only work with licensed auto recyclers who:

• Require proper documentation
• Follow Ontario regulations
• Provide receipts and transfer paperwork
• Protect you from future liability

Never Remove Without Police Clearance

Always contact police first. The vehicle could be:

• Stolen property
• Evidence in a criminal investigation
• Involved in an unsolved crime
• Subject to a missing person investigation

How Cash to Scrap Can Help

Once you've completed the legal process, Cash to Scrap provides professional abandoned vehicle removal:

Documentation Assistance

We guide you through the paperwork requirements and help ensure you've met all legal obligations before removal.

Police Coordination

We work directly with Toronto Police when necessary, ensuring the vehicle is cleared for removal.

Proper Disposal

As a licensed auto recycler, we dispose of abandoned vehicles according to Ontario environmental regulations, protecting you from future liability.

Free Towing

We provide free removal from your property throughout the Greater Toronto Area.

Fair Compensation

Even abandoned vehicles have value. We offer fair payment that can offset any storage or legal costs you've incurred.

Timeline Expectations

The entire process typically takes:

• Week 1-2: Documentation and owner contact attempts
• Week 2-4: Formal written notice period
• Week 4-6: Police report and clearance
• Week 6+: Legal disposal after waiting period

While frustrating, following the proper timeline protects you legally and ensures you can remove the vehicle without liability.

Preventing Future Abandoned Vehicle Issues

For Property Owners:

• Include clear vehicle policies in rental agreements
• Conduct regular property inspections
• Address inoperable vehicles promptly
• Post parking rules and enforcement policies
• Keep contact information for reliable towing services

For Business Owners:

• Install clear signage about parking rules
• Consider permit parking systems
• Regular patrol and documentation
• Established relationship with towing company
• Consistent enforcement of policies

When to Seek Legal Advice

Consult a lawyer if:

• The vehicle appears to have significant value
• The owner is disputing your right to remove it
• You're unsure about your legal rights
• The situation involves complex property disputes
• You're facing threats or harassment

Contact Us for Professional Assistance

Dealing with an abandoned vehicle on your property? Cash to Scrap has extensive experience helping Toronto property owners navigate this challenging situation legally and efficiently.

Call 416-477-7794 or email [email protected]

We provide:

• Free consultation on your specific situation
• Guidance through the legal process
• Documentation assistance
• Police coordination when needed
• Professional, licensed removal service
• Fair compensation for the vehicle

Don't let an abandoned vehicle become a legal headache. Contact us today for expert assistance!