Maintaining property in Seagoville involves more than keeping lawns mowed and structures in good repair.
The city’s junked vehicle ordinance regulates how inoperable, wrecked, or abandoned vehicles must be stored and removed to protect neighborhood aesthetics, property values, public safety, and community health.
While many residents understand that non-running cars cannot sit on city streets indefinitely, specific rules—including strictly enforced timelines for inoperability, enclosed storage guidelines, and prohibition against reconstructing removed vehicles—may surprise property owners.
This article summarizes key provisions of Chapter 13, Article 13.04 of the Seagoville Code of Ordinances. Residents with questions about specific vehicles or code compliance should consult Seagoville Code Enforcement.
What Qualifies as a Junked Vehicle?
Under Seagoville city code, a “junked vehicle” is defined as any self-propelled vehicle that is inoperable and meets specific criteria regarding registration, physical condition, and duration.
To be classified as a junked vehicle, the automobile or equipment must lack a valid, unexpired license plate or valid motor vehicle inspection certificate (as required by Texas law) and meet at least one of the following conditions:
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It is wrecked, dismantled, partially dismantled, or discarded; or
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It has remained inoperable for more than 72 consecutive hours on public property; or
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It has remained inoperable for more than 30 consecutive days on private property.
This definition applies to cars, trucks, trailers, and other motor vehicles located anywhere within city limits.
Junked Vehicles Declared a Public Nuisance
The city ordinance officially declares any junked vehicle visible from a public place or public right-of-way to be a public nuisance.
Such vehicles are recognized as detriments to safety, health, and general welfare. They create potential traffic hazards, lower surrounding property values, attract vandalism, invite vermin or pests, and present fire hazards.
Maintaining, keeping, or permitting a junked vehicle on any private or public property within Seagoville is an offense punishable by a fine upon conviction in Municipal Court.
Exceptions to the Nuisance Rule
The ordinance establishes clear exceptions where keeping a non-operational vehicle is permitted and does not constitute a public nuisance:
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Completely Enclosed Storage: A vehicle that is completely enclosed within a building (such as a garage) in a manner where it is not visible from the street or other public/private property is exempt.
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Commercial Auto Businesses: Vehicles parked or stored in a lawful manner on property operated in connection with a licensed vehicle dealer, auto salvage facility, or bona fide commercial repair shop are permitted.
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Antique & Special Interest Vehicles: Antique or special interest vehicles maintained by collectors may be kept on private property if properly screened from public view by a lawful fence or enclosure.
Notice and Abatement Procedures
When code enforcement identifies a junked vehicle, the city initiates a formal notice and abatement procedure before taking corrective action.
A written notice is delivered or mailed to the last known registered owner of the vehicle, any lienholder, and the owner or occupant of the private property where the vehicle is located.
The notice provides a minimum of 10 days to:
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Abate or remove the nuisance (by repairing the vehicle, bringing registration current, or moving it into an enclosed building/off-site); or
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Request a public hearing before a designated city official or Municipal Court judge to contest the violation.
If the vehicle is not removed and no hearing is requested within the 10-day period, the city may obtain a court order to enter the property and tow the vehicle.
Disposal and Non-Reconstruction Rule
Once a junked vehicle is removed under a city abatement order, it is transferred to a scrap yard, auto demolisher, or designated disposal facility.
Significantly, the ordinance states that any vehicle removed as a junked vehicle cannot be reconstructed or made operable again after disposal processing begins.
Right of Entry for Inspection
Authorized city officials, code enforcement officers, and designated agents have the right of entry onto private property at reasonable times to inspect, investigate, or enforce the provisions of the junked vehicle ordinance.
Residents working to bring a project vehicle or unused car into compliance are encouraged to reach out to Seagoville Code Enforcement early to discuss options for lawful storage or removal.
