Vehicle seizures

Why we might seize a vehicle, what happens when we seize one, how to claim a seized vehicle.

By law we can seize a vehicle or mobile plant and its contents if it's:

When we seize a vehicle, we post a legal vehicle seizure notice within one day of seizing the vehicle.

We also tell the police and the registered owner in writing.

We can hold seized vehicles for 15 working days while we investigate.

If we have started a prosecution, we may keep the vehicle for the duration of the prosecution.

Claim a seized vehicle

To claim a seized vehicle, you must be able to prove you're the legal owner by providing:

a V5C vehicle registration document in your name with your correct address
a current certificate of motor insurance in your name with your correct address
proof of purchase of vehicle
a valid photo card driving licence or passport
proof of address (2 utility bills within the last 3 months with your name on them)

If we need further proof of legal ownership we will notify you within 1 working day.

We must receive any further proof within 2 working days of you receiving the request. We'll tell you our decision within 3 working days.

If we release the vehicle you have 10 working days to collect it.

If a claimed vehicle is released and not collected within 10 working days we can sell it or destroy it.

If it's not collected within 15 working days we'll sell it or destroy it.

To claim a vehicle, write to us with a copy of your evidence to:

Neighbourhood Enforcement
NET (100 Temple Street)
PO Box 3399
Bristol
BS1 9NE