(A) When an abandoned, lost, stolen or unclaimed vehicle comes into the temporary possession or custody of a person not the owner of the vehicle, such person shall immediately notify the Police Department when the vehicle is within the city limits. Upon receipt of such notification, the Police Department will authorize a towing service to remove and take possession of the abandoned, lost, stolen or unclaimed vehicle. The towing service will safely keep the towed vehicle and its contents, maintain a record of the tow as required by § 4-204 of the Illinois Motor Vehicle Code, being 625 ILCS 5/4-204, until the vehicle is claimed by the owner or any other person legally entitled to possession thereof or until it is disposed of.
(B) (1) Except as set forth in this section, an abandoned vehicle which is to be removed shall be towed only after notice has been given to the registered owner or to the person entitled to possession of the motor vehicle indicated in the most current registration list of the Secretary of State, if the names and mailing addresses can be ascertained in the exercise of reasonable diligence, notice shall be given by certified first class mail, return receipt requested. If such names and addresses cannot be ascertained, notice shall be given by affixing on the windshield or some other conspicuous place on the vehicle a notice indicating that the vehicle will be removed, by the city on or after a specific date. This date will be no sooner than seven days alter the notice is mailed or affixed to the vehicle, unless the vehicle is removed by the owner or legal possessor prior to that time.
(2) The notice required by division (B)(1) above shall state that the vehicle will be removed seven days after the postmarked date or affixation of the notice unless removed prior to that time and shall provide information on the availability of the appeal process.
(3) The requirement that notice be given prior to the removal of an abandoned vehicle may, as determined by the Police Department, be omitted in those circumstances where there is a special need for prompt action to eliminate traffic obstructions or to otherwise maintain and protect the public safety and welfare. This includes, but is not limited to, situations that include vehicles blocking or obstructing ingress or egress to businesses and residences, vehicles parked in such a location or manner as to pose a traffic hazard, and vehicles causing damage to public or private property. Such findings shall be documented in written form by the Police Department.
(Ord. 2016-001, passed 1-12-2016)