By law we can seize a vehicle, trailer or mobile plant and its contents if it is:
- used for fly-tipping
- driven by someone who is not registered as a waste carrier
- used to transfer waste to someone who is not a registered waste carrier
When we seize a vehicle, we post a legal vehicle seizure notice here within one working day of seizing the vehicle.
We publish the vehicle seizure notices online.
We also notify the police and the registered keeper 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.
How to claim a seized vehicle
To claim a seized vehicle you must prove you are the legal owner by providing:
- A V5C vehicle registration document in your name with your correct address, and
- A current certificate of motor insurance in your name with your correct address
If we need further proof of legal ownership, we will notify you within one working day.
Any further proof must be received by us within two working days of you receiving the request.
We will tell you our decision within three working days.
If we release the vehicle you will have 10 working days to collect it.
If a claimed vehicle is released and not collected within 10 working days, we can sell or destroy it.
If it is not collected within 15 working days, we will sell or destroy it.
Submit your claim
Write to us with a copy of your evidence to:
Environmental Protection Team
North Devon District Council
Lynton House
Commercial Road
Barnstaple
EX31 1DG