Report or claim an abandoned bicycle

We remove bicycles from public areas in Oxford if they are considered abandoned or causing an obstruction. This page explains our process, the criteria and how to report an abandoned bicycle. It also explains how to claim your bike if it was removed.

Our process for removing abandoned bicycles

If we identify a bicycle as abandoned or unroadworthy we attach a removal notice to the handlebar. After seven days, if the bicycle remains in the same condition, we remove it.

If the bicycle was causing an obstruction, such as blocking a public highway or fire exit, we may remove it immediately and will leave an information notice at the location.

Removed bicycles are securely stored for 35 days from the date of tagging. After this time, unclaimed bicycles are offered to charities or recycled for scrap.

How to claim your bicycle

We do not sell or give abandoned bicycles to the public.

To claim your bicycle you must provide proof of its description (colour, make/model, unique features) and its last location. Without this proof, the bicycle won't be released.

To claim, call 01865 249811 and choose 'Street Services'.

How to report an abandoned bicycle

Check the bicycle meets the criteria then report it at FixMyStreet - please choose 'Street cleaning' category.

A bicycle is deemed abandoned if it meets any of the following criteria:

• it's secured in a way that could cause an obstruction (e.g. blocking the public highway)
• it's secured to a council cycle rack and is unroadworthy (see criteria below)
• it's secured in an inappropriate place (e.g. illegally chained to street furniture) and is unroadworthy
• it hasn't been moved for several weeks

An unroadworthy bicycle will have at least two of these issues:

• flat front tyre
• flat rear tyre
• missing wheel
• missing seat
• buckled wheel(s)
• bent forks
• seized or damaged brakes
• rusted chain or gears
• missing chain