Abandoned Vehicles

A vehicle that has been red-tagged has 72 hours (3 days) to move or it will be subject to impoundment. 

Red Tags

A red-tag is a notice affixed to a vehicle that informs the owner of why it needs to be either moved, or removed from the street. Most vehicles abandoned on public streets or City property will be stored at the City’s impound lot.

Reasons For Being Red-Tagged

A vehicle can be red-tagged for the following reasons:

• The vehicle appears to be or is broken down
• The vehicle has been reported to be abandoned
• The vehicle has expired or no registration

Abandoned Vehicles on Private Property

If you have a vehicle abandoned on your property, contact the Police Department at 970-384-6500. An officer will respond to determine if the vehicle is reported stolen. If the vehicle is reported stolen, the Police Department will impound the vehicle and remove it from the property.

If the vehicle is not reported stolen, the responsibility of the vehicle will fall on the owner of the property. The property owner can contact a tow company to remove the vehicle, however, the cost will initially fall upon the property owner who will then have to seek civil recourse to collect money from the owner of the vehicle.

What to Do if Your Vehicle Is Impounded

No vehicles will be released during the weekend or on holidays

Vehicles will only be released by first contacting front desk personnel at Glenwood Springs Police Department either in person or by calling 970-384-6500, Monday through Friday between the hours of 9 am and 4 pm (excluding holidays).

Abandoned Vehicle Fees

• Abandoned vehicle impounds are $125 plus additional daily storage fees which are set by the particular tow company used. The Glenwood Springs Police Department utilizes several local tow companies on a rotational basis.
• Storage of abandoned vehicles at the City Impound Lot incur a fee of $10 per day.

Abandoned Vehicles Ordinance

View the Municipal Ordinance related to Abandoned Vehicles (PDF).