§ 73.08 DISPOSAL OF UNCLAIMED VEHICLE.

   (A)   (1)   When an abandoned, lost, stolen or unclaimed vehicle seven years of age or newer remains unclaimed by the registered owner, lienholder or other legally entitled person for a period of 30 days after notice has been given as provided in §§ 73.05 and 73.06, the law enforcement agency or towing service having possession of the vehicle shall cause it to be sold at public auction to a person licensed as an automotive parts recycler, rebuilder or scrap processor under 625 ILCS 5 or the towing operator which towed the vehicle.

      (2)   (a)   Notice of the time and place of the sale shall be posted in a conspicuous place for at least ten days prior to the sale on the premises where the vehicle has been impounded.

         (b)   At least ten days prior to the sale, the law enforcement agency where the vehicle is impounded, or the towing service where the vehicle is impounded, shall cause a notice of the time and place of the sale to be sent by certified mail to the registered owner, lienholder or other legally entitled persons.

      (3)   Notice as provided in §§ 73.05 and 73.06 and as provided in this section shall state the time and place of sale and shall contain a complete description of the vehicle to be sold and what steps must be taken by any legally entitled persons to reclaim the vehicle.

   (B)   If an abandoned, lost, stolen or unclaimed vehicle displays dealer plates, notice under this section and § 73.09 shall be sent to both the dealer and the registered owner, lienholder or other legally entitled persons.

   (C)   In those instances where the certified notification specified in §§ 73.05 and 73.06 has been returned by the postal authorities to the law enforcement agency or towing service, the sending of a second certified notice will not be required.

(625 ILCS 5/4-208) (2009 Code, § 23-7-8)