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How long a pound normally keeps a seized car
Police and council impound yards work to fairly consistent timelines across the UK, although the exact rules can vary by force or local authority. The pattern is usually the same: the registered keeper is expected to claim the vehicle within roughly seven days of the seizure, and to collect it within around fourteen days. These timeframes are designed to give the keeper a reasonable opportunity to deal with identification, fees and release requirements without leaving the vehicle in long-term storage.
The seizure notice given at the roadside normally states both the claim deadline and the final collection date. Pound staff rely on that document when deciding whether release is still permitted, so it is worth reading it carefully before making arrangements.
Why pounds follow the seven-day and fourteen-day pattern
Pounds handle a steady flow of vehicles, and statutory powers require them to balance the keeper’s rights with the need to keep space available. The usual system is that the keeper must contact the pound quickly to “claim” the vehicle, then complete everything needed for release within the broader fourteen-day window.
Authorities use these timelines to manage storage safely and lawfully. If the keeper makes contact early, staff can explain exactly what documents they need and what options exist for collecting the vehicle, whether by driving or recovery.
What happens if the deadlines are missed
If the vehicle has not been claimed within the initial period, the pound may treat it as unclaimed and begin disposal preparations. Once the fourteen-day period has expired, they usually have the authority to dispose of the car. Disposal may involve auction, dismantling or scrapping, depending on the vehicle’s condition and the policies of that specific authority.
Once disposal has started, it is rarely reversible. Even if the keeper contacts the pound later, staff may confirm that the vehicle is no longer available. Any outstanding release or storage fees may still be recoverable separately.
Extensions and special circumstances
Keepers sometimes ask whether the pound can hold the vehicle for longer. Pounds normally follow the statutory timetable, and extensions are uncommon. They cannot legally store a vehicle indefinitely, and they are not permitted to delay disposal without a clear reason within their rules.
If the keeper cannot attend promptly, arranging for release to a recovery operator is sometimes quicker than organising insurance or MOT arrangements. The pound still requires identification and payment of fees, but this route can help avoid missing the final collection deadline.
Disputes or difficulties do not pause the clock
If there is disagreement about who should collect the vehicle, or if the keeper cannot be contacted quickly, the pound still relies on the same timeline. Their duty is to hold the vehicle for the required period and release it only to the verified registered keeper or someone the keeper has formally authorised.
If verification cannot be completed in time, disposal may still go ahead once the deadlines have passed.
A practical way to approach the situation
The most reliable approach is to act early. Confirm the pound’s opening hours, gather the correct ID, check the status of insurance, MOT and tax, and decide whether to drive the vehicle away or use a recovery truck.
By working within the usual seven-day claim period and fourteen-day collection period, you keep control over the outcome and avoid the risk of disposal. Pounds apply their rules consistently, and meeting those timelines is usually the simplest way to bring the situation to a sensible conclusion.
Impound processes, time limits and costs vary widely across the UK, and authorities can amend their rules at any time. Information on this site is intended as a general overview and should not be relied on as definitive for any specific impound location.