Abandoned / Inoperable Motor Vehicles

The Palos Township Code prohibits the parking of inoperable motor vehicles in open view on Township Roads or on any real estate located within the corporate boundaries of Palos Township.  Title 4, Chapter 1 of the Palos Township Code is listed below:

4-1-1. DEFINITION OF INOPERABLE VEHICLES.
As used in this ordinance, “inoperable motor vehicle” means any motor vehicle from which, for a period of at least 7 days or any longer period of time fixed by ordinance, the engine, wheels or other parts have been removed, or on which the engine, wheels or other parts have been altered, damaged or otherwise so treated that the vehicle is incapable of being driven under its own motor power. "Inoperable motor vehicle" shall not include a motor vehicle which has been rendered temporarily incapable of being driven under its own motor power in order to perform ordinary service or repair operations.  (Ord. 1993-03, 8-3-1993)

4-1-2.  DECLARATION OF NUISANCE.
Inoperable motor vehicles on public or private property within unincorporated Palos Township are hereby declared to be a nuisance and are prohibited.  (Ord. 1993-03, 8-3-1993)

4-1-3. REQUIREMENT TO DISPOSE OF INOPERABLE VEHICLES.
All persons are required to dispose of any inoperable motor vehicle which they own or which is under their control, within seven days after receipt of written notice from the Township, directing the disposal of such inoperable motor vehicle.  (Ord. 1993-03, 8-3-1993)

4-1-4. PENALTY.
If any person so notified pursuant to Section 3, above, fails to dispose of such inoperable motor vehicle within seven days of receipt of notice, he shall be subject to a fine of not   less than $50.00 nor more than $500.00 for each separate offense.  (Ord. 1993-03, 8-3-1993)

4-1-5. REMOVAL OF VEHICLES.
The Cook County Sheriff is hereby authorized to remove or have removed after seven days from the issuance of notice by the Township, any inoperable motor vehicle or parts thereof left on any place within unincorporated Palos Township. Any such vehicle shall be impounded until lawfully claimed or disposed of in the manner provided in the Illinois Vehicle Code 625 ILCS.  (Ord. 1993-03, 8-3-1993)

4-1-6. EXEMPTIONS.
Nothing in this ordinance shall apply to any motor vehicle that is kept within a building when not in use, to operable historic vehicles over 25 years of age, or to a motor vehicle on the premises of a place of business engaged in the wrecking or junking of motor vehicles.   (Ord. 1993-03, 8-3-1993)