Vehicles

Council regularly receives complaints of vehicles left on roadsides, nature strips, parks and reserves.

If we reasonably believe the vehicle has been abandoned (whether or not it is registered) we will place a notice on the vehicle asking the owner to contact Council within 48 hours. If the vehicle poses danger or risk to the public, it may be towed immediately.

If the owner doesn't contact us, the vehicle will be towed and impounded and if not claimed, may be auctioned or disposed of.

Collecting an impounded vehicle

To collect an impounded vehicle, the owner must provide proof of ownership (eg registration papers) and proof of identity (eg driver's licence or similar photo ID), and pay the costs associated with removing and storing the vehicle.

Owners must make an appointment with Council to arrange pick-up of the vehicle between 9am and 11am on a Tuesday or Thursday.

If you are collecting an unregistered vehicle you must arrange a tow truck or similar at your on expense.

Council is not liable for any theft from, or damage to, a vehicle that has been impounded.

You can request Council waive any associated impound fees in writing to regadmin@cairns.qld.gov.au. Please note Council will not consider waiving impound fees relating to:

1. Unregistered vehicles parked within the local government controlled area, such as a road or footpath; or
2. Vehicles being stripped of parts or having mechanical repairs carried out within the local government controlled area, such as a road or footpath.

Abandoned vehicle online auctions

Vehicles that are deemed abandoned and aren't claimed by their owners will be offered for sale by online auction through Quaid Auctioneers.

Council places a Public Notice in the Cairns Post and on our website prior to each auction at which abandoned vehicles are offered. You can view available vehicles on the Quaid Auctioneers website.