Town of Porter Police Department announces new procedure for abandoned and junk vehicles

The Porter Police Department, in collaboration with the Town of Porter Code Enforcement, has implemented a new procedure for handling abandoned and inoperable vehicles within the Town of Porter.

This updated process improves coordination between departments, streamlines complaint handling, and helps maintain the safety and appearance of our community.

How the Process Works

Town Code Enforcement will handle complaints on private residential property.

The Porter Police Department will handle complaints on public right-of-way and private business property.

For violations on private residential property:

Day 1: Notice and warning of violation issued.

Day 30: If the vehicle is not brought into compliance, a citation will be issued.

Day 45: A report will be forwarded to the Police Department, and the vehicle will be impounded.

Town Code Reference

Residents are encouraged to review the official Town of Porter Code of Ordinances, specifically ARTICLE V. Abandoned and Junk Vehicles, for full definitions and requirements.

Town of Porter Code of Ordinances (see Sec. 26-210 & 26-215)

Excerpt – Sec. 26-210. Definitions:

Abandoned vehicle means the following:

(1) A vehicle located on public property illegally.

(2) A vehicle left on public property without being moved for three days.

(3) A vehicle located on public property in such a manner as to constitute a hazard or obstruction.

(4) A vehicle that has remained on private property without consent of the owner for more than 48 hours.

(5) A vehicle that is dismantled or inoperable and left on public property.

(6) A vehicle impounded and unclaimed after 20 days.

(7) A vehicle three model years old or older, inoperable or unregistered, left visible on private property for more than 20 days.

Excerpt – Sec. 26-215. Abandoned Vehicles and Parts Prohibited:

It is unlawful to abandon, store, or allow any inoperable or abandoned vehicle—or its parts—to remain in the open on public or private property if visible from public view for more than three days (public property) or 20 days (private property), unless part of a legally operating automotive or repair business.

We appreciate the community’s continued help in keeping Porter safe, clean, and welcoming.

To report an abandoned or junk vehicle on private residential property, please contact the Town of Porter Code Enforcement (219)-395-9921.

To report an abandoned or junk vehicle on public right-of-way, or private business property, please contact the Porter Police Department (219)-926-7611.