If your car is old, damaged, or not working, you may not know what to do with it. Should you keep it on your property sell it or scrap it? How many junk cars can you have on your property? Is this legal or not? These are some of the questions that may arise in your mind. In this article, we answer all the questions that may arise in your mind.
What is a junk car?
Before starting to answer ” How many junk cars can you have on your property?”, it is better to discuss what a junk car is and what its features are. A junk car is a vehicle that can no longer be used or is not worth the cost of repair. These vehicles usually have no resale value either, although their parts may still have some value. Therefore, unwanted cars are usually sold for parts or scrap.
Here are some characteristics that indicate a junk car:
- It is more than 20 years old
- Damaged in a major accident
- A lot of damage has been done to its body
- There is a big problem with the engine or its gearbox
- It has been unused for a long time
- Your insurance company has declared a total loss
How many junk cars can you have on your property?
There are specific regulations regarding the number of junk cars on private properties in Alberta that vary by municipality. Alberta municipalities have the authority to set their bylaws, including rules regarding the storage of vehicles on private property.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, you should contact the local municipal office or governing body in your area of Alberta where your property is located. Municipalities may have ordinances that regulate the number of idle or unregistered vehicles allowed on a property. These regulations are designed to maintain community standards, aesthetics, and safety.
You can contact your local municipal office visit the official website of the municipality or even contact local law enforcement to obtain information about the regulations. They can provide you with specific regulations for your area.
Is It illegal to have too many junk cars on your property?
Having too many junk cars on your property can be considered illegal in some cases. Depending on local laws and regulations, one or both of the following may be violated:
- Zoning codes or ordinance codes limit the number of vehicles that can be parked on a residential property.
- Non-disturbing rules that lead to the peace, health, safety, or welfare of the community.
- Environmental laws that protect the quality of air, water, and soil from pollution.
- Property maintenance codes that require owners to keep their premises clean, sanitary, and free of lines.
- Abandoned vehicle laws determine how long a vehicle can be left on someone else’s property without harming them.
Read Also: A guide to Environmental benefits of auto salvage yards
Why do some people keep old cars in the same place?
There are many reasons why some people choose to keep their old cars instead of getting rid of them. Some of these reasons are given below:
Emotional value
Some people may have an emotional attachment to their old car and don’t want to part with it. These people may have memories or stories related to their old car and consider them a part of their identity or life history.
Financial value
Some people may think that their old cars have a special value and may intend to sell the car or its parts. These people hope to find a buyer or mechanic who can repair or restore the car. It is usually also possible that these people want to avoid paying fees or taxes for disposing of their old cars.
Practical value
Some people may use their old cars for storage or shelter. They may store tools, equipment, furniture, or other items in their old cars. They may also use their old cars as a place to sleep, rest, or hide.
Lack of resources
Some people may not have the tools or motivation to get rid of old cars. They may not have the money, time, energy, or knowledge to deal with old cars. They may also not have access to transportation, towing, recycling, or disposal services.
What happens if there are too many junk cars on your property?
Depending on local laws and regulations, the consequences of having too many unwanted cars on your property can vary. However, in case of violation of the rules related to this subject, the following general cases can occur:
- You may be fined. The amount of the fine varies according to local laws.
- You may be asked to remove unwanted vehicles from your property. If you don’t, local authorities can remove them and charge you.
- You may violate the Do Not Disturb Laws. These rules are to maintain the health, safety, and welfare of the community. If your unwanted cars are considered a nuisance, you will be asked to remove them or face further penalties.
- The value of your property can decrease with this issue. Unwanted cars can make your property look unsightly and unattractive, thus reducing its value.
- You may be liable for injuries or damages caused by unwanted vehicles. If someone is injured or someone’s property is damaged by your unwanted vehicles, you may be responsible for the costs.
Reasons why people have junk cars on their property
There are several reasons why people may keep junk cars on their property. Some of the common reasons are as follows:
- The car is not worth repairing. If you have a car with a lot of damage, it may not be worth repairing. In this case, the owner may decide to keep it as a junk car and use its parts. This can be a good way to save money on other car repairs.
- The car is being restored. Some people collect junk cars and restore them. This can be done as a hobby or business. It is also enjoyable for these people.
- The car has sentimental value. Some keep unwanted cars because of sentimental value. This may be because this car belonged to one of their loved ones or they owned it when they were young.
- The car is used for storage. Sometimes people may keep unwanted cars on their property because they use them for storage. This may be used to store tools, furniture, or other items.
How to comply with the rules regarding the storage of unwanted cars in your property?
In addition to the answer to the question, ” How many junk cars can you have on your property?” Let’s explore how you can comply with the laws regarding keeping junk cars on private property.
Store your junk car properly
If you have more than two unwanted cars, you should store them away from your neighbors as they may be considered a nuisance. Before you do, it’s a good idea to look up the municipal rules for storing junk cars in your area.
Recycling and selling parts
Another option you have is selling auto parts. Of course, this may seem like a good idea at first glance, but you should keep in mind that the search for a buyer can take months. Also, proper car recycling needs professionals. As a result, you have to take your car to a designated place. As a result, the cost of towing is also your responsibility.
Car donation
Many organizations accept donations in this way. But they may not accept your unwanted car if it is seriously damaged. If your car is unused or old, this method is most likely suitable for you, but if you have a car that is considered a total loss, do not choose this method.
Selling a car to a reliable buyer
If you know that you cannot keep the allowed number of unusable cars in your private land and you have no place to keep them, the best option is to sell them.
You don’t have to deal with the hassle of towing when you sell your car to a trusted, professional buyer like junk car removal Calgary. You can sell your car on the same day and free up space in your garage. You also get a higher price for your car.
