Puerto de la Cruz has introduced a new regulation to tackle the issue of abandoned vehicles on public roads. The local council has finalised the municipal regulation regarding the removal, transfer, storage, and disposal of vehicles, following a period of public consultation that received no objections.
The new rules are necessary as the council currently lacks a municipal vehicle storage facility and does not have its own vehicle removal service. Plans are in place to implement an indirect management system through a service contract, although the council may choose to take over direct management in the future.
Under the new regulations, a vehicle can be towed if it obstructs traffic, poses a danger to pedestrians or drivers, or is involved in an accident. Towing will also occur for vehicles parked in disabled spaces without appropriate permits, blocking access lanes, or parked in a regulated area without a valid permit.
Vehicles parked in front of waste containers, on the pavement, or in pedestrian areas, as well as those that are abandoned or in a state of disrepair, will also be subject to removal. The owner will be responsible for all towing and storage costs unless the vehicle was stolen.
If the owner arrives while the vehicle is being towed, they can reclaim it for a reduced fee, but once it is hitched or on the towing truck, the full fee applies. Removal will be well documented, including photographs taken from multiple angles to prevent disputes about the vehicle’s condition.
The new storage facility will be open 24/7 and must have adequate security measures. The procedure for addressing abandoned vehicles is detailed, starting with placing a sticker on the vehicle. If it remains in place for over two months, it could be classified as waste.
The council can also remove vehicles for public events or construction projects, with notifications required to be posted at least 24 hours in advance. The aim is to clarify the process and enhance communication with vehicle owners, ensuring they are informed about the location and condition of their vehicles, along with any fees incurred.
