Department of Development & Permits - Plan Review & Code Compliance Division - Zoning Administration

Inoperable Motor Vehicles on Residential Property

An inoperative vehicle is defined as any motor vehicle or trailer (including recreational vehicles):

1. Which is not in operating condition; or
   
2. Which for a period of 60 days or longer has been partially or totally disassembled by the removal of tires and wheels, the engine or other essential parts required for operation of the vehicle; or
   
3. On which there are displayed neither valid license plates nor a valid inspection decal.

It is a violation of the Chesapeake Zoning Ordinance to keep, except one vehicle within a fully enclosed building or structure, or otherwise shielded or screened from view, on any property zoned or used for residential purposes, any motor vehicle or trailer which is inoperative. "Shielded or screened from view" means not visible by someone standing at ground level from outside of the property on which the subject vehicle is located; however, no vehicle or trailer may be shielded or screened from view by use of a cover.

The keeping of more than one inoperable vehicle is considered a junkyard, and is not permitted in any residential zoning district.

The property owner is responsible for any inoperable vehicles on his/her property.  Violators are issued a written notice of violation by a Code Compliance Inspector, and if not corrected are issued a summons.

The vehicle in violation may also be removed by the Police Department, and the cost of removal charged to the owner of the property.

Revised 9/27/06  AHL