Guidelines re-emphasized regarding abandoned, derelict vehicles on base

  • Published
  • By Kevin King
  • 341st Security Forces Squadron
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  In recent months, it has become apparent that vehicles are being neglected or abandoned in various parking lots on the installation. This poses both a safety hazard and security risk to wing personnel.

IAW AFI 31-204_341 MW Sup, "The Installation Commander defines 'abandoned' vehicles as any vehicle in a state of general disrepair, the owner cannot be located or identified, or a combination of the following factors are present:
  • parked in the same location for more than 30 days other than designated long-term parking areas [i.e., deployment parking]; 
  • absence of the vehicle's major body parts, flat tire or tires for 72 hours; 
  • expired state registration; and/or
  • accumulation of mechanical parts or debris under or around the vehicle."

Security Forces will attempt to notify owners that they have 72 hours to fix or remove the vehicle from the installation. If the vehicle is not fixed or moved, it will be impounded and disposed of by the Security Forces Investigations Section.

If the vehicle owner cannot be notified, a citation for "Suspected Abandoned Vehicle" will be issued. Owners then have seven days to remove the vehicle or it will be impounded.

Owners of vehicles that have been impounded are responsible for paying all costs associated with the removal of the vehicle and its storage. Failure to pay all costs could result in the towing company selling the vehicle in order to reimburse the costs incurred during the impoundment.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Base Defense Operation Center at 731-3895.