It shall be unlawful for any person to use City streets to park, stop, store, or operate a vehicle or part thereof in such a manner as to obstruct or impede the free flow of traffic thereon or the movement of pedestrians. Determination by the Commissioner that such a vehicle is actually obstructing traffic as aforesaid shall be considered prima facie evidence of a violation hereof. The Commissioner is authorized to cause such vehicle to be removed immediately so as to clear the streets. Such removal may be:to another part of the same street; to a side street; or effected in the manner hereinafter provided for impounded and abandoned motor vehicles. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §87 Ord. 69-343 Ord. 86-772

It is unlawful for any person to park, stand, or stop a vehicle or part of a vehicle on any street, lane, or alley:during the hours when parking, standing, or stopping is restricted or prohibited; or for longer than the time permitted for parking, standing, or stopping. A violation of this subsection is a misdemeanor, punishable by the fine specified in Subtitle 36 of <cite data-path="|31">this article</cite>. In the impounding areas designated in Part 7 of this subtitle, the Department of Transportation shall post conspicuous signs warning the public of the restricted hours and bearing the statement “Cars Towed Away” or “Tow Away Zone”. In an impounding area in which the required signs have been clearly posted, the Police Commissioner may cause vehicles that are illegally parked, standing, or stopped to be removed and impounded. In this subsection, “semitrailer” has the meaning given in <cite data-doc="Md. Code" data-path="gtr|11-158">State Transportation Article § 11-158</cite>. If a semitrailer, whether attached or detached, is parked, standing, or stopped in violation of <cite data-path="|31|§6-26|(b)">§ 6-26(b) {“Commercial vehicles: Stopping by residence”} of this article</cite>, the Police Commissioner may cause that semitrailer, together with any other vehicle attached to it, to be removed and impounded. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §88 Ord. 69-343 Ord. 70-925 Ord. 75-920 Ord. 84-023 Ord. 03-591 Ord. 15-435

In this section, “Department” means:the Department of Transportation, if that agency has been designated for these purposes by the Board of Estimates, as provided in State Transportation Article (“Maryland Vehicle Law”) § 25-201(e)(3); or otherwise, the Baltimore City Police Department. The abandonment of a vehicle on the streets of the City, on any other public property, or on any private property without the consent of the owner or person in control of that private property is prohibited by State Transportation Article (“Maryland Vehicle Law”) § 25-202, subject to the penalties provided in Maryland Vehicle Law Title 27. If a vehicle has been abandoned on a street or any other public property, the Department may have the vehicle removed as provided in this subtitle. If a vehicle has been abandoned on private property, the Department shall first ascertain who owns or controls the property and make a reasonable effort to discover whether the vehicle is parked or stored on the property with the consent of the owner or person in control of the property. The vehicle is deemed abandoned and may be towed or otherwise removed, as provided for vehicles found abandoned on public property, if:by reasonable investigation, the Department determines that the vehicle is parked on the property without the consent of the owner or person in control; the owner or person in control cannot be located within a reasonable period of time; or the storage of the vehicle is in violation of the zoning laws or regulations of the City as applied to that property. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §91 Ord. 69-343 Ord. 71-1162 Ord. 83-1000 Ord. 99-421 Ord. 06-347 Ord. 15-435

When a motor vehicle has been involved in an accident or other disablement so that: it cannot be operated under its own power; or the owner or operator thereof is unable to operate it; or such vehicle is obstructing traffic, the Commissioner is authorized to cause such vehicle to be removed to the auto pound hereinafter referred to or put in some other place where it will not obstruct, interfere with, or impede the free flow of traffic. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §92 Ord. 69-343 Ord. 70-806

When the Commissioner recovers a vehicle which has been reported stolen or has been used without authorization, he may cause such vehicle to be removed to the said auto pound. The Commissioner, upon receiving a report of a stolen vehicle, shall report such alleged theft at once to the Motor Vehicle Administration as required by State law. Upon recovery of such car reported stolen, the Commissioner shall at once notify said Motor Vehicle Administration as so required. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §93 Ord. 69-343

The owner of a vehicle removed or impounded under this Part 2 may be charged a maximum of $150 for the tow of the vehicle unless:the vehicle is a commercial vehicle under <cite data-path="|31|§1-1|(f)">§ 1-1(f) {“Definitions – A to L: Commercial Vehicle”} of this article</cite>; or the tow of the vehicle:requires removal from an embankment, ditch, waterway, trench, hole, or heavily wooded area; or otherwise requires specialized and exceptional services for the vehicle’s removal. Additional storage fees, administrative fees, and fines for outstanding parking violations may also be charged as allowed by applicable laws and regulations. Ord. 14-266 Ord. 14-307

It is unlawful for any person to park a vehicle or part of a vehicle on any street, lane, or alley if the vehicle:is not displaying currently valid registration plates; and has its VIN obscured so that it cannot be read from outside the vehicle. The Commissioner is authorized to cause any vehicle in violation of subsection (a) of this section to be immediately removed and impounded as provided in this subtitle. Ord. 18-195

If an unattended motor vehicle is found parked at any time on any City street and the vehicle has 3 or more unsatisfied citations against it for parking violations, and if a period of 30 days or more has elapsed since the 3rd unsatisfied citation, the Commissioner is authorized to cause that vehicle:either by towing or otherwise, to be removed or conveyed to and impounded in any place designated by the Director of Transportation; or immobilized so as to prevent its operation. Except that no such vehicle shall be immobilized by any means other than by the use of a device or other mechanism which will cause no damage to such vehicle unless it is moved while such device or mechanism is in place. When the vehicle has been removed and impounded pursuant to the provisions of this section, it shall be subject to the impounding provisions of this subtitle and the penalties applicable thereto. An immobilized vehicle which is thereafter impounded shall not be subject to the booting fee hereinafter provided for in this subtitle. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §90(a), (b)(1) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 74-768 Ord. 83-864 Ord. 15-435

The owner of a vehicle impounded under this Part 3, has the same right to contest the validity of the impoundment by requesting a hearing in the same manner as is provided for owners of vehicles impounded as abandoned under Part 4 of this subtitle, the provisions of which shall also apply to vehicles impounded under this Part 3. The hearing for the owner of a vehicle impounded pursuant to this Part 3 shall be provided within 72 hours, excluding Sundays and holidays, from the time said owner files an application for such hearing. The right to the hearing provided for under this section applies equally to:an owner who elects to be heard prior to payment of any towing or storage charges and posting collateral equivalent to the maximum fines and penalties for unsatisfied parking violation citations; and to an owner who elects to pay such amounts and secure immediate release of the impounded vehicle. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §90(b)(2)(1st, 2nd sens.) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 74-768 Ord. 83-864

Posted notice of this right shall be given said owner as provided in Part 4 of this subtitle. Said owner shall also be notified in writing of this right should said owner appear to claim the vehicle impounded and elect to secure immediate release of the impounded vehicle by payment of all charges which have accrued thereon. The application for the hearing shall be filed by the owner of the vehicle impounded under the provisions of this Part 3, and said owner shall be so advised, within 10 days from :the receipt by the owner of the notice posted to such owner; or from the date said owner is notified in writing of his right to said hearing, should said owner appear to claim the vehicle impounded. The owner of an immobilized vehicle which is thereafter impounded pursuant to the provisions of this Part 3 shall be advised that said owner’s right to the hearing provided under this Part shall be deemed to have been waived if said owner:fails to return the application for the hearing within 10 days from the receipt of the notice posted to such owner; fails to return the application for the hearing within 10 days from the date said owner is notified in writing of his right to said hearing should said owner appear to claim the vehicle impounded pursuant to the provisions of this Part 3; or executes a written document waiving said owner’s right to the hearing provided for under this Part 3. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §90(b)(2)(3rd, 4th sens.), (3), (4) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 74-768 Ord. 83-864

Applications for a hearing contesting the validity of the impoundment or immobilization under this Part 3 shall be heard to determine:whether or not there were, at the time such vehicle was impounded or immobilized, 3 or more unsatisfied citations for parking violations against such vehicle; and whether a period of 30 days or more had elapsed since the 3rd unsatisfied citation. The hearing officer may also consider such other relevant facts and circumstances, as he deems necessary, in making a determination as to the validity of the impoundment. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §90(c) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 74-768 Ord. 83-864

Whenever a vehicle is immobilized under this Part 3, the Commissioner shall cause to be placed on the vehicle, in a conspicuous manner, a notice sufficient to warn any individual that the vehicle has been immobilized and that any attempt to move the vehicle might result in damage to it. The notice shall also advise the owner or operator:that the vehicle has been immobilized by the City for violations of <cite data-path="|31">this article</cite>; that the owner of an immobilized vehicle has the right to contest the validity of the immobilization at a hearing, to be convened within 72 hours, excluding Sundays and holidays, from the submission of a hearing application; where hearing application forms can be obtained by or requested to be mailed to the owner; how release of the vehicle may be obtained on payment of the booting fee and other charges specified in this Part 3; and that this payment does not affect the owner’s right to a hearing or to contest the validity of the immobilization. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §90(d) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 74-768 Ord. 83-864 Ord. 08-049

The owner of an immobilized vehicle may secure release of the vehicle on payment of:a booting fee of $150; and all charges that have accrued on the vehicle, including collateral equivalent to the maximum fines and penalties for all unsatisfied parking violation citations. This payment does not affect the owner’s right to a hearing under this Part 3 nor does it waive the owner’s right to contest the validity of the immobilization. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §90(f) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 74-768 Ord. 83-864 Ord. 08-049 Ord. 14-267

The owner of a vehicle immobilized under this Part 3 has the right to contest the validity of the immobilization at a hearing within 72 hours, excluding Sundays and holidays, from the time said owner files an application for such hearing with a hearing officer. Said owner may also secure a hearing, as provided for herein, within 72 hours, excluding Sundays and holidays, from the time said owner files the application required, before payment of the booting fee and all charges which have accrued thereon by virtue of the immobilization, and before the immobilized vehicle is released. The form of the application shall be prescribed by the Director of Transportation. The application shall be filed within 10 days from:the date the owner has been provided notice of immobilization, as specified in <cite data-path="|31|§31-25">§ 31-25 of this subtitle</cite>; the receipt of written notice to be provided the owner, as prescribed in <cite data-path="|31|§31-28">§ 31-28 of this subtitle</cite>; or the date the owner is notified in writing of his or her right to a hearing if the owner appears to claim the immobilized vehicle. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §90(g)(1) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 74-768 Ord. 83-864 Ord. 15-435

Unless the owner of a vehicle immobilized under the provisions of this Part 3 appears to secure release of the vehicle within 24 hours after the vehicle has been immobilized, in addition to the notice given the owner of the vehicle, as provided for under <cite data-path="|31|§31-25">§ 31-25 of this subtitle</cite>, the Director of Transportation shall give the owner written notice, by certified mail within 48 hours after the vehicle has been immobilized, that the owner has the right to contest the validity of the immobilization at a hearing within 72 hours, excluding Sundays and holidays, from the submission of an application. A copy of the application shall be included with the notice posted to the owner. The owner of a vehicle immobilized pursuant to this section shall be advised that said owner’s right to a hearing provided herein shall be deemed to have been waived if said owner:fails to return the application for a hearing within 10 days from the receipt of notice provided for in § 31-25 or within 10 days from the receipt of any certified mail notice sent to said owner; fails to return the application for the hearing within 10 days from the date said owner is notified of his right to said hearing, should said owner appear to claim the vehicle immobilized under this section; or executes a written waiver whereby he waives the hearing provided for under this Part 3. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §90(g)(2), (3) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 74-768 Ord. 83-864 Ord. 15-435

Subject to Title 4 {“Administrative Procedure Act – Regulations”} of the <cite data-path="|general">City General Provisions Article</cite>, the Director of Transportation shall establish by regulations the procedures for the holding of the hearings provided for under this Part 3. The hearing officers appointed in accordance with the provisions of Part 4 of this subtitle shall receive the applications and conduct the hearings provided for under this Part 3. If it is determined by the hearing officer, after consideration of the criteria prescribed for the hearing as set forth in <cite data-path="|31|§31-24">§ 31-24 of this subtitle</cite>, that the vehicle should not have been immobilized:the owner shall not be required to pay the booting fee provided for under § 31-26 to secure release of said vehicle; or if the booting fee was paid prior to the hearing a refund of said booting fee shall be made to the owner who paid said fee. The hearing officer’s ruling in no way has any bearing on the fine, penalty, or charge imposed by the District Court of Maryland for parking violations. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §90(g)(4), (5) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 74-768 Ord. 83-864 Ord. 15-435 Text Conformed 02/28/21 By authority of Ordinance 20-431, Section 5, the Director of Legislative Reference, in consultation with the Law Department, has conformed this section to refer expressly to and reflect the requirements of the recently-enacted Administrative Procedure Act that, effective January 15, 2021, governs the proposal, adoption, and publication of administrative rules and regulations.

If following trial in the District Court of Maryland or other tribunal, a not guilty verdict is entered upon any of the parking violations charged against the vehicle immobilized, notwithstanding the ruling of the hearing officer with respect to the immobilization of the vehicle, all charges advanced as having accrued upon the vehicle by virtue of its immobilization, including the collateral advanced, for such parking violation upon which a not guilty verdict was entered, shall be returned to the person who advanced such sums upon presentation of the official receipt issued at the time said vehicle was released. It is further provided that if, as the result of the Court’s decision, the number of parking violations charged against the vehicle previously immobilized, is reduced to 2 or less, and provided no refund has previously been made, the booting fee shall also be returned to the person who advanced such fee, upon presentation of the official receipt issued at the time said vehicle was released. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §90(h) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 74-768 Ord. 83-864

It shall be unlawful for any person:to tamper with or remove or attempt to remove the immobilization device without authorization; or to remove the warning notice. Any person violating any of the provisions of this section shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to a fine of not more than $500 or to imprisonment for not more than 12 months, or to both such fine and imprisonment in the discretion of the court. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §90(e) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 74-768 Ord. 83-864

To assist in effectuating the purposes of this subtitle, the Director of Transportation shall provide an auto pound or storage area of sufficient size and staffed with sufficient personnel and equipment to receive, hold, and dispose of the motor vehicles delivered to it. To this end, a Towing Division shall be maintained in the Department of Transportation. The Director of Transportation shall appoint a Chief of that Division, to be known as the Chief of the Towing Division. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §94 Ord. 69-343 Ord. 15-435

In carrying out the provisions of this subtitle with respect to vehicles abandoned, parked, stopped, left unattended in violation of law, or obstructing traffic, the Police Commissioner shall cause the vehicle to be removed. However, with respect to cars stolen, disabled by accident or otherwise, or parked so as to block the entrance to a driveway in an impoundment zone, except in emergency situations, the Commissioner shall employ 1 or more licensed towers or towing companies to proceed at once to the scene and transport such vehicle to the said auto pound. Disabled vehicles, however, may be towed to a place designated by the owner or his agent. For the purposes of this section, emergency situations are deemed to mean police security, civil disaster, or otherwise. Such tower shall be selected by the Commissioner from a list previously prepared by him. In selecting a tower for a particular transaction, preference shall be given to one as close as possible to the location of the vehicle. The towing charges shall be set in advance, arrived at by agreement between the towers, the Commissioner, and the Director, with any disputes as to charges to be settled by the Commissioner. In the event towing is performed by City forces or vehicles and no employment of towers becomes necessary, the same schedule of charges shall apply. Such towing charges will be added to the cost of storage as hereinafter specified, and made a lien upon such vehicle. When a private tower is used, said Commissioner shall prepare a vehicle report for the vehicle and have it verified and signed by such tower on forms provided by the Commissioner:containing:a brief description of the vehicle, including any distinguishing marks or accessories; and a listing of any personal property found; showing removal and custody of same for such vehicle; and also showing the towing charges for removing said vehicle to the auto pound. The Commissioner may promulgate and adopt rules to implement the enforcement hereof, such rules to be published. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §95 Ord. 69-343 Ord. 70-806 Ord. 81-425 Ord. 15-435

Within 2 full working days after the vehicle has been removed to the auto pound, the Director of Transportation must post notice to the owner of the vehicle and, within 7 full working days, must post notice to the secured party by certified mail, return receipt requested, of the following:that the Director has the vehicle in custody; the storage location of the vehicle; that the vehicle will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder unless claimed by the owner within 11 working days after receipt of the notice; and that the owner of a vehicle impounded as an “abandoned vehicle” or as an “unidentifiable vehicle” may contest the validity of the taking by application, on a form prescribed by the Director of Transportation, to a hearing officer within 10 days from the date of such application. Application forms shall be sent to the owner and shall be made part of the notice letter. The Mayor shall appoint a hearing officer, who shall not be a member of any state or local police department, to hear applications to determine whether or not the vehicle was abandoned and, therefore, subject to impoundment under the Baltimore City Code. Subject to Title 4 {“Administrative Procedure Act – Regulations”} of the <cite data-path="|general">City General Provisions Article</cite>, the Director of the Transportation shall establish by regulation the procedures for holding these hearings. If it is determined that the vehicle was unlawfully impounded, the owner of the vehicle shall not be liable for any charge imposed for the towing and storage of the vehicle. The hearing officer’s ruling in no way has any bearing on the fine, penalty or charge imposed by the District Court of Baltimore City for the violations of any traffic law. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §96(a) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 80-150 Ord. 85-388 Ord. 86-769 Ord. 86-793 Ord. 89-307 Ord. 90-516 Ord. 15-435 Ord. 18-195 Text Conformed 02/28/21 By authority of Ordinance 20-431, Section 5, the Director of Legislative Reference, in consultation with the Law Department, has conformed this section to refer expressly to and reflect the requirements of the recently-enacted Administrative Procedure Act that, effective January 15, 2021, governs the proposal, adoption, and publication of administrative rules and regulations.

The Director of Transportation is not required to give notice or hold a hearing in the case of a vehicle that: is more than 8 years old; and has no engine or otherwise is totally inoperable. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §96(d) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 80-150 Ord. 85-388 Ord. 86-769 Ord. 86-793 Ord. 89-307 Ord. 90-516 Ord. 15-435

In researching ownership, the Director of Transportation is not required to go beyond the name and address of the person who is the legal or title owner of the vehicle, as noted in the records of the Motor Vehicle Administration of the State of Maryland, or similar agency in any other state or country. In those instances where:the identity of the last registered owner of an impounded vehicle cannot be determined from the records of the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration or similar agency in any other state or country; registration of the vehicle gives no address for the owner; it is impossible to determine with reasonable certainty the identity and address of each secured party; or the certified mail notice required by this Part 4 is returned as undeliverable, then the Director of Transportation shall give the required notice by publication in at least 1 newspaper of general circulation in the area where the vehicle was found. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §96(b) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 80-150 Ord. 85-388 Ord. 86-769 Ord. 86-793 Ord. 89-307 Ord. 90-516 Ord. 15-435

If an owner appears to claim the owner’s vehicle, then it shall be returned to the owner or the owner’s authorized representative upon payment of all charges which have accrued thereon by virtue of its towing and storage, including collateral equivalent to the maximum fine for illegal parking where the vehicle was impounded. If a vehicle is claimed by the owner or the owner’s authorized representative upon payment of all charges accrued, the payment will not affect the owner’s right to a hearing prescribed above or be taken as an admission of whether or not the towing of the vehicle was authorized under the Baltimore City Code. An owner or the owner’s authorized representative whose vehicle has been impounded as abandoned and who claims the vehicle within 48 hours after the vehicle has been removed to the auto pound:must be notified in writing that the owner has a right to contest the validity of the taking before a hearing officer; and must make application within 10 days thereafter of the intention to contest the validity of the taking to the hearing officer. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §96(c) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 80-150 Ord. 85-388 Ord. 86-769 Ord. 86-793 Ord. 89-307 Ord. 90-516

Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section for commercial vehicles, the storage charge for each vehicle delivered to the storage area is as follows:for the 1st 48 hours or any shorter period, $50; and for each 24-hour period or part of a 24-hour period after the 1st 48 hours, $15. The storage charges for a commercial vehicle, as defined in the Maryland Vehicle Law, are as set by the Director of Transportation from time to time. A schedule of the charges set under this subsection must be filed with the Department of Legislative Reference before they take effect. The charges imposed by this section are in addition to any other fine, penalty, or charge imposed for violation of any traffic law. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §96(e), (f) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 80-150 Ord. 85-388 Ord. 86-769 Ord. 86-793 Ord. 89-307 Ord. 90-516 Ord. 01-190 Ord. 15-435

If following trial in the District Court of Baltimore City or other tribunal, the owner or operator of any vehicle so removed is found not guilty upon a traffic charge, even though the hearing officer ruled otherwise with respect to the towing of an abandoned vehicle, the sums advanced or posted by the vehicle’s owner or operator shall be returned to the owner or to the person who advanced or posted them. When a vehicle is thus reclaimed its owner or operator shall sign a receipt therefor. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §96(g) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 80-150 Ord. 85-388 Ord. 86-769 Ord. 86-793 Ord. 89-307 Ord. 90-516

In cases where the owner asserts that certain accessories, contents, or other items of personal property are missing when the owner reclaims said vehicle: such claim shall be noted on the aforesaid receipt; the matter of the missing property left open for future determination; and the vehicle, together with its contents, duly released to its owner or operator. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §96(h) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 80-150 Ord. 85-388 Ord. 86-769 Ord. 86-793 Ord. 89-307 Ord. 90-516

In case the owner or operator does not claim the vehicle within the required time limit: the Director of Transportation shall proceed to sell or dispose of the vehicle at public auction, as provided in Part 5 of this subtle; and no vehicle held at the auto pound may be released without the written approval of the Director, whose approval however, may not be unreasonably withheld. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §96(i) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 80-150 Ord. 85-388 Ord. 86-769 Ord. 86-793 Ord. 89-307 Ord. 90-516 Ord. 15-435

It is declared to be the intent of this Part 5 that all motor vehicles brought to the auto pound shall be disposed of as promptly as possible and within a period of 45 days, unless such vehicles are needed for pending litigation or police action such as the investigation of accidents or suspected violations of the law. If such vehicles are held beyond the aforesaid 45-day period they may be held only:under Court order, in the case of pending litigation; or upon written request from the Commissioner, in other cases. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §97(a) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 69-560 Ord. 87-1047

The Director of Transportation shall arrange for a certain number of auction sales each year, which may not be less than 1 sale per month. The sales shall be conducted through regularly licensed auctioneers of the City of Baltimore, selected by the Department of Finance in accordance with the provisions of <cite data-doc="City of Baltimore, Md., Charter">the City Charter</cite> governing retention of services, and under the rules, regulations, and procedures that, subject to Title 4 {“Administrative Procedure Act – Regulations”} of the <cite data-path="|general">City General Provisions Article</cite>, the Director of Transportation adopts. In advance of the periodic sales, the Director of Transportation shall prepare a list of motor vehicles proposed to be sold at auction. The lists shall be sent to the Police Commissioner for the Commissioner’s approval, on forms prepared for the Director, and no motor vehicle may be sold unless the sale has been approved by the Commissioner. The Commissioner may not withhold approval of the sale unless the motor vehicle is involved in a police matter. In that event, where practicable, the Commissioner shall take photographs of the vehicle or its parts and preserve written descriptions of it, so that the vehicle itself may be put up for sale and disposed of as soon as possible after the 45-day period. All auction sales shall be under the supervision of the Department of Finance and advertised in 1 or more newspapers of general circulation throughout the Baltimore Metropolitan Area. Except as provided in <cite data-path="|31|§31-58">§ 31-58 of this subtitle</cite>, the Department may notify scrap metal processors, used car dealers, and spare parts dealers so as to endeavor to have a number of competitive bidders at each sale, it being the intent that every vehicle listed for sale at a given time shall be disposed of and removed from the auto pound, so as to prevent the storage area from becoming overcrowded. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §97(b) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 69-560 Ord. 87-1047 Ord. 97-212 Ord. 01-243 Ord. 15-435 Text Conformed 02/28/21 By authority of Ordinance 20-431, Section 5, the Director of Legislative Reference, in consultation with the Law Department, has conformed subsection (b) to refer expressly to and reflect the requirements of the recently-enacted Administrative Procedure Act that, effective January 15, 2021, governs the proposal, adoption, and publication of administrative rules and regulations.

In this section, the following terms have the meanings indicated. “Abandoned vehicle” has the meaning stated in § 25-201(b) of the State Transportation Article. “Dirt bike” has the meaning stated in <cite data-path="|19|§40-1">Article 19, § 40-1</cite> of the City Code. “Unregistered motorcycle or similar vehicle” has the meaning stated in <cite data-path="|19|§40-1">Article 19, § 40-1</cite> of the City Code. Bidders for dirt bikes or for unregistered motorcycles or similar vehicles, other than abandoned vehicles, must be licensed, bonded motorcycle dealers, licensed automotive dismantlers and recyclers, or licensed scrap metal dealers. The purpose of this subsection is to ensure that dirt bikes and unregistered motorcycles or similar vehicles that have been forfeited under City Code <cite data-path="|19">Article 19</cite>, Subtitle 40, can be put to good use without being returned to the streets of the City. Forfeited dirt bikes and unregistered motorcycles or similar vehicles may be transferred to 1 or more charitable organizations for export abroad to provide relief to impoverished areas with critical transportation needs. The procedures used for transfers under this subsection must:accord with <cite data-doc="City of Baltimore, Md., Charter">the City Charter</cite> provisions that govern the disposition of surplus property; ensure that all interested charitable organizations have an opportunity submit proposals for the vehicles; ensure that the selected organization has the ability to take control of the vehicles and export them; and require the selected organization to enter into a written agreement with the City that delineates the parties’ respective responsibilities. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §97(b-1) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 69-560 Ord. 87-1047 Ord. 97-212 Ord. 01-243 Ord. 01-285 Ord. 10-389

Funds received pursuant to the sales shall be accounted for and remitted to the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore. However if the owner or person entitled to possession presents to the Director of Transportation, within 90 days of the date of the sale, a claim for any excess in the amount of the selling price of a vehicle, part of a vehicle, or the contents of a vehicle, over and above the expenses, the Director, on finding that an excess of $25 or more exists, shall recommend to the Board of Estimates that the excess be returned to the owner or other person. Expenses above referred to shall include but not be limited to:towing; storage; unpaid fines against the owner; and payment of all liens on the vehicle of which the Director received actual notice, in the above order of priority. Action of the Board of Estimates upon a recommendation shall be final and not subject to appeal. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §97(c) Ord. 69-343 Ord. 69-560 Ord. 87-1047 Ord. 15-435

On the sale of a motor vehicle, the Director of Transportation shall forward to the Motor Vehicle Administration a certificate that the motor vehicle has been sold at public auction, with a request that the certificate be considered sufficient evidence to enable the purchaser to obtain a new certificate of title and registration. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §98 Ord. 69-343 Ord. 15-435

This section applies to any vehicle that:was reported stolen; and is found in and towed from:an impounding area; a location where it was obstructing or impeding pedestrian or vehicular traffic; or an area other than an impounding area, at a location where it was not obstructing or impeding pedestrian or vehicular traffic. No charge may be imposed for storing the vehicle during:the period ending 48 hours after notification by the Towing Division; and any longer period that, for good cause shown, the Chief approves. The Chief of the Towing Division shall adopt standards for determining “good cause” under subsection (b)(2) of this section. A copy of these standards shall be filed with the Department of Legislative Reference before they become effective. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §100(a) Ord. 73-430 Ord. 02-404 Ord. 15-435

Where the Police Department has caused a vehicle to be impounded for investigative purposes, no storage charges shall be collected. Upon receiving an order from the Police Department, the Towing Division shall release the vehicle to the owner, his or her next of kin, or his or her authorized representative. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §100(b) Ord. 73-430 Ord. 15-435

If a vehicle is impounded and neither the owner nor operator of the vehicle is charged with a violation that falls within the scope of this subtitle, no charge may be imposed for towing or storage if, after every reasonable attempt has been made to notify the owner or the owner’s next of kin that the vehicle has been delivered to the storage area, the vehicle is reclaimed within 48 hours or within any longer period that, for good cause shown, the Chief of the Towing Division approves. Subsection (a) of this section does not apply to the impoundment of:a stolen vehicle; an abandoned vehicle; or a vehicle involved in an accident, unless the vehicle was lawfully parked at the time of the accident. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §100(c) Ord. 73-430 06-311 Ord. 15-435

Aliceanna Street, both sides, from President Street to Central Avenue. Arlington Avenue, both sides, from Mulberry Street to Franklin Street. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §129 1976/83, art. 31, §101 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 70-819 Ord. 77-524 Ord. 87-960

Baltimore Street, southerly side, from Fremont Avenue to Broadway. Baltimore Street, northerly side, from Greene Street to Fallsway. Bayard Street, north side, from Warner Street to Russell Street. Belair Road, both sides, from North Avenue to Sinclair Lane. Broening Highway, both sides, from Cardiff Avenue to Colgate Creek Bridge. Broadway Market, rear parking lot north of Aliceanna Street adjacent to the trash compactor. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §130 1976/83, art. 31, §102 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 78-879 Ord. 83-872 Ord. 85-411 Ord. 86-827 Ord. 89-403 Ord. 90-488 Ord. 93-190

Calvert Street, both sides, from York Street to Chancery Road. Camden Street, both sides, from Sharp Street to Paca Street. Camden Yards Stadium Complex Area, Residential Permit Parking Program Areas. The Camden Yards Stadium Complex Area is that area described in <cite data-path="|31|§10-37">§ 10-37 of this article</cite> and, for impounding purposes, includes only those Residential Permit Parking Program Areas established under that section. Cathedral Street, westerly side, from Mt. Royal Avenue to Chase Street. Cathedral Street, easterly side, from Biddle Street to Mt. Royal Avenue. Cathedral Street, both sides, from Chase Street to Saratoga Street. Centre Street, both sides, from Eutaw Street to Fallsway. Charlcote Road, both sides, from Charles Street to St. Paul Street. Charles Street, both sides, from Pratt Street to Fayette Street. Charles Street, both sides, from Barre Street to Pratt Street. Charles Street, east side, from Fayette Street to 26th Street. Charles Street, west side, from Fayette Street to North Avenue. Charles Street, west side, from Wyndhurst Avenue to Coldspring Lane. Charles Street, both sides, from 29th Street to Charlcote Road. Cider Alley, both sides, from Eutaw Street to Paca Street. Clay Street, both sides, from Howard Street to Park Avenue. Commerce Street, easterly side, from Pratt Street to Baltimore Street. Commerce Street, west side, from Pratt Street to Lombard Street. Curran Drive, northeasterly side, alongside of Lake Montebello. Curran Drive, southerly side, from 33rd Street Extended to road connection to Harford Road. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §131 1976/83, art. 31, §103 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 76-163 Ord. 78-879 Ord. 79-1184 Ord. 80-191 Ord. 82-682 Ord. 86-827 Ord. 88-190 Ord. 89-403 Ord. 91-802 Ord. 92-011 Ord. 92-101 Ord. 93-192 Ord. 06-316

Dolphin Street, both sides, from Madison Avenue to Eutaw Place. Druid Hill Avenue, both sides, from Eutaw Street to Fulton Avenue. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §132 1976/83, art. 31, §104 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821

Eager Street, southerly side, from Calvert Street to Guilford Avenue. East Falls Avenue, both sides, from Pratt Street to Aliceanna Street. Edmondson Avenue, both sides, from Hilton Street to the Baltimore National Pike. Edmondson Avenue, both sides, from Franklin Street to Hilton Street. Ellicott Street, both sides, from Water Street to Lombard Street. Emory Street, west side, of the 200 block where parking meters are installed. Eutaw Street, east side, from Madison Street to Biddle Street. Eutaw Street, both sides, from Baltimore Street to Madison Street. Eutaw Street, both sides, from Camden Street to Baltimore Street. Eutaw Street, both sides, from Biddle Street to Dolphin Street. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §133 1976/83, art. 31, §105 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 77-281 Ord. 78-719 Ord. 78-879 Ord. 79-943 Ord. 80-165 Ord. 81-189 Ord. 84-027 Ord. 86-656 Ord. 87-945 Ord. 93-192

West Fairmount Avenue, both sides, from Park Avenue to North Howard Street. Fallsway, both sides, from Baltimore Street to Mt. Royal Avenue. Fayette Street, southerly side, from Gay Street to Greene Street. Fayette Street, northerly side, from Gay Street to Fulton Avenue. Fayette Street, both sides, from Fallsway to Frederick Street. Franklin Street, both sides, from St. Paul Street to Franklin Street Extended. Franklin Street Extended, both sides, from Franklin Street to Edmondson Avenue. Frederick Avenue, both sides, from Payson Street to Bentalou Street. Frederick Street, east side, from Water Street to Baltimore Street. Fulton Avenue, both sides, from Wilkens Avenue to Harlem Avenue. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §134 1976/83, art. 31, §106 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 78-879 Ord. 85-409 Ord. 86-806 Ord. 86-827 Ord. 89-403

Gay Street, both sides, from Pratt Street to Orleans Street. Gay Street, westerly side from Saratoga Street to Fallsway. Gay Street, both sides, from Broadway to North Avenue. Gay Street, westerly side, from Ashland Avenue to North Avenue. Greene Street, both sides, from Franklin Street to Washington Boulevard. Greenmount Avenue, both sides, from North Avenue to Preston Street. Greenway, easterly side, from St. Martins Road to University Parkway. Greenway, westerly side, from Chancery Road to University Parkway. Guilford Avenue, both sides, from North Avenue to Baltimore Street. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §135 1976/83, art. 31, §107 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 76-196 Ord. 77-282 Ord. 78-879 Ord. 86-827

Hanover Street, both sides, from Pratt Street to Lombard Street. Harbor City Boulevard, both sides, from Washington Boulevard to Howard Street. Hillen Street, both sides, from Holliday Street to Ensor Street. Hopkins Place (Southbound Drive), both sides, from Baltimore Street to Lombard Street. Howard Street, both sides, from Pratt Street to 29th Street. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §136 1976/83, art. 31, §108 Ord. 65-580 Ord.66- 821 Ord. 78-879 Ord. 79-993 Ord. 83-877 Ord. 86-827 Ord. 89-403

I-395, both sides, from Camden Street to Conway Street. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §137 1976/83, art. 31, §109 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 86-600

Key Highway, south side, from Light to William and Battery Avenue to Covington Street, and north side, from Light Street to Covington Street. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §139 1976/83, art. 31, §111 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 83-878

Lafayette Avenue, both sides, from Guilford Avenue to Falls Road. Lanvale Street, southerly side, from Maryland Avenue to St. Paul Street. Lanvale Street, northerly side, from Maryland Avenue to Charles Street. Lexington Street, both sides, from Gay Street to Pearl Street. Lexington Street, south side, from Frederick Street to Gay Street. Liberty Street, both sides, from Saratoga Street to Fayette Street. Lombard Street, both sides, from Payson Street to Broadway. Lombard Street, southerly side, from Broadway to Washington Street. Lovegrove Street, both sides, from Mercer Street to Water Street. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §140 1976/83, art. 31, §112 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 77-329 Ord. 78-879 Ord. 86-827 Ord. 86-850 Ord. 89-402 Ord. 89-403

McCulloh Street, both sides, from Eutaw Street to Cloverdale Road. Madison Street, both sides, from Fallsway to Calvert Street. Maryland Avenue, both sides, from Chase Street to 29th Street. Monroe Street, both sides, from Edmondson Avenue to Wilkens Avenue. Monument Street, north side, from Fallsway to Washington Street. Mt. Royal Avenue, northerly side, from North Avenue to Guilford Avenue. Mt. Royal Avenue, southerly side, from North Avenue to Maryland Avenue. Mt. Vernon Place, both sides, between the east and west drives of Washington Place. Mount Street, both sides, from Mulberry Street to Franklin Street. Mulberry Street, both sides, from St. Paul Street to Warwick Avenue. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §141 1976/83, art. 31, §113 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 77-275 Ord. 77-598 Ord. 78-718 Ord. 78-879 Ord. 83-895 Ord. 85-477

North Avenue, southerly side, from Charles Street to Guilford Avenue. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §142 1976/83, art. 31, §114 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821

Orleans Street, both sides, from St. Paul Place to Pulaski Highway. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §143 1976/83, art. 31, §115 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821

Paca Street, both sides, from Camden Street to McCulloh Street. Park Avenue, both sides, from Baltimore Street to Mulberry Street. Park Avenue, easterly side, from Chase Street to Biddle Street. Pimlico Race Track Area, as described in <cite data-path="|31|§10-33">§ 10-33 of this article</cite>. Pratt Street, north side, from Washington Street to Scott Street. Pratt Street, south side, from Broadway to Martin Luther King Boulevard. President Street, both sides, from Fayette Street to Aliceanna Street. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §144 1976/83, art. 31, §116 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 78-879 Ord. 79-994 Ord. 81-539 Ord. 84-044 Ord. 86-827 Ord. 87-1108 Ord. 87-1109 Ord. 88-016 Ord. 89-403 Ord. 11-498

Redwood Street, north side, from Charles Street to Light Street. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §146 1976/83, art. 31, §118 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 79-1186 Ord. 84-008 Ord. 86-827 Ord. 89-403

St. Paul Place, both sides, from Centre Street to Lexington Street. St. Paul Place, alley, rear of 227 St. Paul Place. St. Paul Street, east side, from the bridge south of Lanvale Street to Baltimore Street. St. Paul Street, west side, from 31st Street to Baltimore Street. Saratoga Street, both sides, from Holliday Street to Greene Street. Sharp Street, both sides, from Saratoga Street to Clay Street. South Street, both sides, from Baltimore Street to Pratt Street. Stadium Area. That area in the general vicinity of Memorial Stadium on East 33rd Street, included within the outer limits of East 25th Street, Harford Road, Hillen Road, Argonne Drive, East 39th Street and Greenmount Avenue; except that this subtitle shall be effective in this area only as to any motor vehicle parked illegally in front of a driveway or garage. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §147 1976/83, art. 31, §119 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 78-879 Ord. 78-917 Ord. 83-873 Ord. 88-012 Ord. 89-403 Ord. 92-055 Ord. 92-110

33rd Street, both sides, from St. Paul Street to Ellerslie Avenue. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §148 1976/83, art. 31, §120 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 78-879

Water Street, both sides, from Charles Street to Lovegrove Street. Whitman Drive, southeasterly side, alongside of Lake Montebello. Wilkes Lane, both sides, from Calvert Street to its western terminus. Wilkes Lane, both sides, from Charles Street to Hanover Street. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §151 1976/83, art. 31, §123 Ord. 65-580 Ord. 66-821 Ord. 76-163 Ord. 77-329 Ord. 83-906 Ord. 86-595 Ord. 86-655 Ord. 86-843

No vehicle shall be permitted to stop or stand at any time within 50 feet of an approach to a mid-block pedestrian crossing or within a distance of 25 feet after leaving a mid-block crossing. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §113A Ord. 77-273

In front of or opposite any fire engine house and in any reservation for authorized emergency vehicles in spaces marked off and designated by the Director of Transportation. City Code, 1966, art. 31, §155 1976/83, art. 31, §127 Ord. 61-911 Ord. 76-005 Ord. 15-435

Those locations on public metered parking lots set aside for carpool cars by the Director of Transportation. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §128 Ord. 75-871 Ord. 15-435

Within any designated fire lane on either public or private property open to the use of the general public. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §128A Ord. 77-306

Within any space or zone marked as restricted, pursuant to § 6-9 or §§ <cite data-path="|31|§9-1">9-1</cite> through <cite data-path="|31|§9-15">9-15</cite> of <cite data-path="|31">this article</cite>, to the use of disabled persons or helpers of disabled persons on private or City-owned property open to the use of the general public, except for vehicles with special registration plates for disabled persons. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §128B Ord. 78-856 Ord. 96-023

Within any zone marked as tow away, pursuant to <cite data-path="|31|§6-12">§ 6-12 of this article</cite>, so as to obstruct or impede egress or ingress to or from a driveway, service drive, or private way. Violation of this section occurs whether or not a vehicle has actually been prevented from entering or leaving the driveway, service drive, or private way. City Code, 1976/83, art. 31, §128C Ord. 81-425 Ord. 07-504

“Car-sharing program” means a program by which an entity offers the use of motor vehicles to its members and patrons on a 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week basis, charging for the use of these vehicles on a time-used basis. Impounding areas include those locations on the streets, on public-metered parking lots, and in City-owned parking facilities that the Director of Transportation reserves for parking vehicles used in a car-sharing program approved by the Director. Ord. 07-607

Within a passenger loading zone, freight loading zone, valet parking zone, or mobile vending zone during its operational hours. Ord. 13-098 Ord. 14-237

Within any bus lane or bus stop designated by the Director pursuant to <cite data-path="|31|§23-3">§ 23-3 {“Designation of lanes and stops”} of this article</cite>. Ord. 17-038

Within any bike lane designated by the Director pursuant to <cite data-path="|31|§20-3">§ 20-3 {“Designation of bike lanes”} of this article</cite>. Ord. 17-041