Environment Control

San Jose, CA Ensures Environment Protection vs. Junk Cars

Junk vehicles and abandoned cars are environmental hazards, which is why local authorities take action to remove them from public roads and private lots. In San Jose City, California, residents who have an unwanted vehicle in their property can request towing and disposal services from the city’s Code Enforcement Division.

The service will be rendered free of charge.if the vehicle to be towed is inoperative and is a safety hazard to the property and community as a whole. Junk or abandoned cars that are languishing in public roads are also safety concerns. The hazards posed by abandoned cars include potential use for criminal activities such as drug deals and prostitution. Junk or abandoned cars are also sources of environmental hazards.

The Dangers of Having a Junk or Inoperable Car Sitting on a Property or Public Space

Junk and inoperable vehicles are highly attractive to nuisance creatures like rats, raccoons and squirrels. These animals use the compartments as breeding grounds or temporary shelter when foraging for food in a neighborhood. Although there are local laws that protect these creatures from inhumane treatment, they are candidates for extermination, because they are known carriers of highly infectious diseases.

In recent years, a lot of homeowners across California and in other parts of the country, have been experiencing rat infestations; where even cars properly parked in garages, have become breeding grounds for pests. Apparently, rats and other rodent species have developed a liking for soy-based wire coating and seat upholstery, they have since added the materials to their choices of tasty chewables.

Often times, junk or abandoned vehicles that have been sitting on a public space or private property for quite sometime have not undergone proper fluid removal. As a result, toxic substances such as lubricants, transmission oil, antifreeze and brake fluid, leak into pavements or be absorbed by ground.soil The toxicity of the leakage not only pollutes soil but can also be harmful to microorganisms beneficial to plant life. During floodings and even by way of rainwater runoffs, the toxic fluids could make their way into groundwater sources, which over time can poison water reserves.

Procedures and Documentations Required Before an Abandoned Vehicle is Towed

While residents of San Jose City can help the Code Enforcement Division by reporting junk vehicles left on public roads, private lots or in front of their residence, the division still has to review and verify such reports. When reporting such vehicles, the concerned citizen must submit clear photos that show the derelict condition of the vehicle reported. The Parking Compliance Officer assigned to the area will inspect the vehicle to confirm that the vehicle is indeed a safety and health hazard, as well as an extreme blight to the neighborhood.

While towing san jose abandoned vehicles may be undertaken by privately-owned towing companies, the tow truck drivers and crew are also required to provide proper documentation to support the legality of their towing operation. Otherwise, the vehicle owner can file a complaint against the towing crew for illegally booting or winching the vehicle to the towing truck.