City Code - Vehicles

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I keep my car parked on the street in front of my home?

It must be driven at least one mile every five days.

Is it okay to repair my car on the street in front of my apartment/house?

No. Repair of vehicles is prohibited on the public right-of-way except in the case of emergency.

I'm thinking of buying a RV and keeping it parked on the street in front of my home. Can I do that?

As long as it is a motorized vehicle, under 40 feet long, the same rule applies as in question #1. In other words, it must be driven at least one mile every five days. If it is a non-motorized RV and is not attached to a motorized vehicle such as a car, truck, or van and you park it on the street, it is subject to a $25 fine or immediate removal.

The registration on my car expired 6 months ago, but I never drive it. Is it okay to leave the car parked on the street?

No. You may be subject to a $60 fine and the vehicle may be towed immediately.

Can I park a boat, trailer, or camper on the street in front of my home?

Not if it is unattached from a car, truck, van, or other motorized vehicle. In that case, it is subject to immediate removal and a $25 fine. Otherwise the "one mile in five-days" rule applies.

Didn't it used to be legal to run a motor repair business from my home?

It has never been legal to run a motor repair business from a residence and now the new changes to the Municipal Code prohibits running a motor vehicle salvage yard or any type of salvage yard from your home.

What number do I call to complain about 'big rigs' and abandoned vehicles?

For complaints about "big rigs," you may call the Vacaville Police Department at 449-5200.

Vehicle Code Update Info

You’re an important part in keeping our neighborhoods places we enjoy living, and are proud to call home. The following explains important code requirements relating to you and your vehicles.

TOWING

• Vehicles being actively repaired on blocks, jacks or other support which are without tires hoods, or with broken windows are not considered to be in working order. They may be towed away.
• The City has increased the number of days from the time your vehicle is cited until it is taken to a scrap or auto dismantler's yard. It used to be 5 days; you now have 15 days. Once the vehicle is taken away, it may not be rebuilt (unless it is either a historical vehicle or a horseless carriage).

ABANDONED VEHICLES

• A vehicle is considered "abandoned" when:
  1. It has been parked on a road or other public property for five or more days in a row,
     OR
  2. It does not have a valid registration,
     OR
  3. It is missing important parts, such as wheels, engine, doors, windows, fenders, transmission, radiator, etc.
• Repeat Offender of Unattended or Abandoned Vehicle
  • When a vehicle is tagged more than once for the same violation, the time is reduced from five (5) days to three (3) days to correct the violation.  (CA State Limit) VMC 10.48.140

PARKING

• Vehicles may not be parked or kept on front lawns or side yards.
• A vehicle that doesn't work may be parked in the driveway of a home on private property IF:
  1. It looks like a vehicle that could be safely driven on public streets,
     AND
  2. The driveway is concrete, asphalt, brick, or fitted stone. These surfaces must be continuous-no concrete strips or bricks under vehicle tires,etc. 
• If your vehicle is registered, works, and is parked on public property, but you will be away on vacation or military duty, notify the City so we know the vehicle isn't abandoned. This will help avoid the vehicle being cited or towed.
  The City will try to check if you are on vacation or military duty before taking any action, however, you are still responsible for the vehicle. The City can still legally tow the vehicle.
• Parked vehicles must clear sidewalks by at least 36 inches.