Selling a junk car in American Canyon

The city's rule

American Canyon's municipal code calls Chapter 10.36 "Abandoned, Wrecked, Dismantled or Inoperative Vehicles." Section 10.36.080 says that when the vehicle abatement officer finds such a car, or its parts, kept in a way two earlier sections of the chapter don't permit, removal may start "in accordance with the procedures described herein." The next section spells out what the American Canyon abatement and removal notice has to look like.

We have not quoted the two earlier sections, which say where a car may lawfully be parked or stored. Read them, or call the city, before relying on an exception. The city may have other rules that this page does not cover.

What California adds

The city's power traces to Vehicle Code 22660, which allows every California city to pass its own removal ordinance for junk cars on public or private land and to charge back the costs. Several state rules also apply in American Canyon:

• The curb clock. State law permits towing a car left on a street "for 72 or more consecutive hours" against a local ordinance.
• Stripped cars. An American Canyon car on a public right-of-way that lacks parts it needs to run, such as wheels, engine or doors, can be towed right away.
• Cheap cars move fast. An abandoned American Canyon car valued at $500 or less gets a 72-hour notice before towing, and a letter goes to the owner within 48 hours after. In American Canyon, you have 10 days to request a hearing. Disposal can follow 15 days after the letter.
• Dumping is fined. Ditching a car on a highway, or on someone's private land without their okay, costs $100 or more, plus proof you paid to have it removed.

DMV steps for an American Canyon car

Napa County does not issue titles; California's DMV does, through its field offices. Your signature goes on the title as seller, along with a lienholder's if DMV records show one. The DMV's private-sale steps include no notary.

American Canyon sellers file REG 138 with the DMV within five days. This helps if the buyer dumps the car later. With your report of sale filed, Vehicle Code 22523 keeps you clear of the citation and any amount still owed after a lien sale. A car going to a dismantler skips smog testing, and ordinary plates leave with it. After you sell lists the remaining steps.

Neighboring towns

Vallejo is 5.0 miles away as the crow flies, Napa 8.5 and Benicia 9.3. A car that has been picked over is covered in missing parts, and statewide rules are on the California page.

Getting an offer

Phone (877) 421-6008 or use the form. Describe your American Canyon car to us. Our truck can take it from a front yard, a side lot or a body shop.