(A) Except as set forth in § 96.08 below, an abandoned, hazardous or junked vehicle which is to be removed shall be towed only after notice to the registered owner or person entitled to possession of the vehicle. In the case of a hazardous vehicle or a junked motor vehicle, if the names and mailing addresses of the registered owner or person entitled to the possession of the vehicle, or the owner, lessee, or occupant of the real property upon which the vehicle is located can be ascertained in the exercise of reasonable diligence, notice shall be given by first class mail to all such parties. Such notice shall include notification to the registered owner of the vehicle at his or her last known address according to the latest registration certificate or certificate of title on file with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles; notice to the owner of real property at the mailing address listed with the Forsyth County Tax Administration office; and notice to the address of the property on which the vehicle is located. The person who mails the notice(s) shall retain a written record to show the name(s) and address(es) to which mailed, and the date mailed. If such names and addresses cannot be ascertained or if the vehicle to be removed is an abandoned motor vehicle, 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 village on a specific date no sooner than seven days after the notice is affixed or mailed, unless the vehicle is moved by the owner or legal possessor prior to that time.
(B) Appeals. The registered owner or person entitled to possessing a vehicle which has been determined to be an abandoned vehicle on private property, hazardous vehicle or junked motor vehicle who has received a notice pursuant to division (A) that the vehicle will be removed may appeal the determination. Any appeal shall be made within ten days upon receipt of the notice for removal of the vehicle as provided in division (A). All appeals shall be made to the Village Council in writing filed with the Village Clerk. Appeals held pursuant to this section shall be conducted by the Village Council within 45 days after the receipt of a request for a hearing, and further proceedings to remove the vehicle shall be stayed until the appeal is heard and decided.
(Ord. 2021-04, passed 3-8-21)