Ajman Government Enacts Law To Manage Abandoned Vehicles And Enhance Urban Aesthetics

The Ajman Government has introduced a new regulation to tackle the issue of abandoned vehicles in the emirate. This law aims to improve the urban environment, promote sustainable practices, and prevent actions that harm the area's visual appeal. Law No. (5) of 2024 requires individuals and organisations to maintain and store their vehicles properly, prohibiting abandonment in public spaces.

An "abandoned vehicle" is defined as any motor vehicle left unattended in a public area for an extended time, posing risks to public health or safety, harming the emirate's beauty, or breaching environmental laws. The Municipality and Planning Department has the authority to identify and seize such vehicles under this legislation.

A committee named the "Abandoned Vehicle Disposition Committee" is established by this law to manage these vehicles. Their duties include cataloguing, inspecting, and assessing abandoned vehicles' conditions. They also verify confiscation reasons and ensure no legal issues exist with these vehicles.

The committee is responsible for notifying vehicle owners, law enforcement, and judicial authorities about the details of abandoned vehicles. They also handle claims, objections, or legal challenges related to these vehicles.

The law sets out a procedure for dealing with abandoned vehicles. Owners are informed to reclaim their vehicles, while known creditors are notified to take legal action within 30 days from notification. If neither party acts within this period, the committee will list the vehicles for public auction.

A vehicle is deemed abandoned if it remains neglected for seven days after being identified by an authorised official. The owner can reclaim their vehicle before the auction by paying all fees and fines incurred up to that point.

This legislation aims to enhance Ajman's urban landscape by ensuring proper vehicle maintenance and storage while discouraging behaviours that detract from its aesthetic appeal.

With inputs from WAM