(A) A law enforcement officer, only after providing notice to the owner of a motor vehicle as provided herein, may cause the motor vehicle to be impounded and towed when the officer reasonably believes a vehicle is abandoned. For the purpose of this section,
ABANDONED means that the vehicle has been parked or left standing on the public right-of-way for a period in excess of 24 hours without authorization provided by law.
(B) A law enforcement officer shall provide written notice of intent to impound/tow a vehicle when the officer determines that a vehicle is abandoned. Notice shall be sent to the owner of the vehicle and any lessors or security interest holders as shown in the records of the Department of Transportation. The notice shall state that the vehicle will be towed unless the vehicle is removed within five days of the date of mailing the notice. The notice shall also be posted in a conspicuous place on the vehicle and must state the vehicle will be towed on a date not later than five days of the date of posting. Failure to provide notice under this section shall not affect the validity of any action taken to tow and impound an abandoned vehicle pursuant to this section.
(Ord. 1203, passed - -1999)