Impounds increase
An increasing number of cars have been dumped and abandoned on roadsides in recent times, according to Baw Baw Shire.
Shire planning and economic development director Matthew Cripps admits it appeared there had been an increased number of vehicles dumped on roadsides.
Mr Cripps said there was a spike in numbers about 12 months ago and then a drop, but said “there has been several in the last few weeks.”
Under the Local Government Act 1989, council has the authority to impound abandoned vehicles.
Mr Cripps said if a vehicle appeared to be unregistered or abandoned, a notice was placed on the vehicle giving the owner seven days to remove the vehicle or provide proof to council that it was registered and had not been abandoned.
“If the vehicle is not moved or council is not advised that the vehicle is not abandoned, the vehicle is impounded.
Mr Cripps said the process was usually undertaken by council staff without police involvement. However, he said there were times when police involvement was necessary, such as when the vehicle had been reported stolen.
Mr Cripps said council often removed the vehicle with its own equipment to avoid costs, but there were some instances when assistance was required from a towing company.
“Following impoundment, the owner has the opportunity to reclaim their vehicle. To do so, they must pay for all costs associated with impounding the vehicle and a release fee.
“This mitigates any costs being passed onto ratepayers.
“We try to recoup as much of the costs as possible,” he said.
Mr Cripps said if an impounded vehicle was not reclaimed within 14 days, council has the option to either sell, destroy or give away the vehicle and anything in, on or attached to the vehicle.