For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ABANDONED VEHICLE. Any vehicle which reasonably appears to have been left derelict by its driver on either public or private property.
ABATE. To remove the source of the nuisance either by correcting specific problems or by removal from public view.
APPEAL. The legal right commonly known as “due process” whereby the legal owner of the vehicle of the property can come forward to show cause to stop or alter the abatement activity.
CONTRACT TOW. A towing service company “on contract” with the city to tow away abated vehicles.
DISMANTLED. Any vehicle which has been disassembled in part or in whole.
INOPERATIVE. Any vehicle, which for obvious reasons (i.e., flat tire or tires, missing engine, dropped driveline, etc.), cannot be operated on a public street per the requirements of the California Vehicle Code; or, any vehicle which appears to have not been operated for a prolonged period of time as evidenced by heavy dirt on vehicle, cobwebs underneath, etc.
PARTS. Any components of a vehicle or vehicles which are not attached to their usual and typical position on the vehicle and which are in public view.
PRIVATE PROPERTY. Any property in the city limits which is not owned or controlled by a governmental agency.
VEHICLE. Any conveyance capable of being driven, pushed, towed, or otherwise propelled, and which may or may not be motorized, and which could be operated on a public road.
WARNING NOTICE. A courtesy notice placed on vehicles suspect of or subject to vehicle abatement criteria in the hope of obtaining voluntary abatement without having to initiate a formal vehicle abatement action.
WRECKED. Any vehicle which appears to have sustained obvious and apparent damage due, typically, to an automobile accident that either makes the vehicle inoperative or very unsightly.
(Ord. 1153, passed 4-20-94)