An orange tag on your windshield usually signals that your vehicle has been marked as abandoned, inoperable, or a potential hazard. Common reasons include missing parts like wheels, visible damage, or being parked in one spot for too long—especially in areas where local laws limit how long a car can stay in place.
How quickly a vehicle gets tagged depends on local regulations. Some cities act within 72 hours, while others allow more time. Either way, once the tag appears, you typically have only a short window to resolve the issue—so it’s important not to delay.
If your car gets tagged, don’t panic—take action immediately. Contact your city’s parking or code enforcement office to find out why the tag was issued. Depending on the reason, you may need to repair or move your vehicle. If you believe it was marked in error, ask about how to dispute it and prepare any proof to back your case.
Ignoring an orange tag can result in your car being towed or impounded, often with steep fees. To avoid that, always follow local parking rules, maintain your vehicle in usable condition, and respond quickly to any official notices. A little attention now can save you a big headache later.