Untaxed vehicles

Woking Borough Council are currently operating an untaxed vehicles scheme under the guidance of DVLA. This scheme operates under The Vehicle Excise Duty (Immobilisation, Removal and Disposal of Vehicles) Regulations 1997. This legislation allows for the instant removal of untaxed vehicles located on the public highway. Abandoned vehicles are not included as part of the scheme (see below).

What is the difference between an untaxed vehicle and an abandoned vehicle?

Abandoned vehicles generally have signs that they are not in use (see abandoned vehicles). However, there are some vehicles which may be being used on the public highway that are untaxed only . These vehicles can be targeted under this scheme.

How do I report an untaxed vehicle?

If you believe a vehicle to be untaxed, you should report it to Woking Borough Council. You can do this online, or alternatively please call on 01483 755855.

If I do not tax my vehicle, am I committing a criminal offence?

If you are the registered keeper of a vehicle which is untaxed, it must have a Statutory Off Road Notification (S.O.R.N.) from DVLA, and it must be kept off the public highway. If this is not the case, the vehicle would be illegal and therefore, you would be committing a criminal offence.

If I leave my untaxed vehicle on the public highway, what is the statutory notice period after which it can be removed?

Under these new devolved powers from DVLA, Woking Borough Council can remove these vehicles immediately.

Can I recover my vehicle  if it is removed?

Vehicles are removed by a local recovery firm in Aldershot (01252 331652). If you would like to recover your vehicle, you will need to contact them to arrange this.

Fees to release a vehicle are as follows:

Within 24 hours                                     £80

After 24 hours                                       £160

There is a £15 per day storage charge after 48 hours (from the time of the offence).

A valid tax disc must also be produced. If you do not have a valid tax disc then a £120 surety fee must be paid.

You will also need to produce a valid V5C registration certificate. If you do not possess this, you will need to pay £19 and complete a V62 form.

Who should I contact if I would like any other information regarding my untaxed vehicle?

If you would like to discuss the matter further, other than to arrange the release of your vehicle, you need to contact DVLA on 01792 765152.

Woking Borough Council are acting on behalf of DVLA when removing untaxed vehicles and therefore, are unable to provide any further information.