Can my car be towed from my assigned apartment parking?

Question

My car is parked in my assigned parking but, it is NOT registered. I had trouble passing a smog test and haven't had the money to get it re-registered. Las week I found a big orange sticker on my car saying it would be towed because of expired tags. This is my car and is parked in my spot. I went to the office to talk to the people there and the only answer they gave me to why I need updated tags was, "Cuz it's the law". What is the real reason for needing updated tags, and can they tow my car?

Also, I haven't driven my car since the tags expired (03-08) but, I do start it once a week to keep the engine from sitting to long.

Answer 1

Register it as PNO since you arent driving it anyway. Its cheaper and they cant tow it.

Answer 2

Check your lease.  This has happened to me before because my plates were expired a month or so.  Pretty sure it's legal for them to tow it.

Answer 3

Any property owner can have it written into the lease that vehicles on the property must be registered and insured.  It usually isn't enforced unless the vehicle looks derelict, but it is the decision of the landlord.  It isn't the law, of course, but it is allowed by law.  Contact a U-Store type of place that has a yard for boats, motor homes etc, and contract to store it there.  It does not need registration while stored in such a facility.

Answer 4

I believe they can have it towed.  You will most likely find that they can by reading the lease that you signed.  Have you explained your circumstances to them ?  maybe they will make an exception.

Answer 5

Matt ,unfortunately the owners of the apartment complex have the right to call on unregistered vehicles on the property that may not be insured.Times are tough ,I hope you do OK.

Answer 6

In the majority of states a car must be registered even if it is not being used and is parked for a very long time.  The only way to not get ticketed or towed would be to put it in a private garage where transportation department won't see it.  This has nothing to do with the apartment company, you are  breaking a law.  Seems fishy though, my guess would be someone who does not liek you reported it.  Rarely with the DOT go into private parking lots looking for expired tags.