Notwithstanding anything in this chapter to the contrary, when a vehicle is creating a traffic hazard because of its position in relation to a highway, its physical appearance is causing the impeding of traffic, or it otherwise presents a danger to the public health and safety on public or private property, the Chief of Police, or his or her designate, may authorize and direct the immediate towing and impounding of the vehicle without notice to the owner thereof or other person legally entitled thereto. Immediately thereafter, the owner or other person legally entitled thereto shall be identified and notified in accordance with this chapter. The determination may also be reviewed and vehicle disposed of in accordance with this chapter, provided that if it is concluded that the vehicle is not an abandoned or derelict vehicle within the meaning of this chapter, the vehicle shall be released without charge to the owner thereof or other person legally entitled thereto.
(1980 Code, § 20.1006) Penalty, see § 70.99