Milwaukee Impounds 354 Vehicles Under New Reckless Driving Ordinance

A Wisconsin Department of Transportation “Slow Down in Our Neighborhood” sign reminds motorists to reduce their speed on residential streets in Milwaukee.

Milwaukee police impounded 354 vehicles during the first year of a city ordinance allowing authorities to seize vehicles involved in reckless driving offenses.

The ordinance, approved in November 2025, followed a Wisconsin state law authorizing municipalities to adopt measures permitting vehicle impoundment when drivers are cited or arrested for reckless driving.

According to data provided by Ald. Lamont Westmoreland, who sponsored the legislation, the city collected more than $66,000 in related impoundment fees during the first 12 months. Twenty-seven vehicles remained unclaimed, while one was auctioned and two were recycled.

Owners must pay outstanding citations and applicable towing and storage fees to reclaim their vehicles. Unclaimed vehicles may be disposed of after 90 days.

Similar ordinances have since been adopted in Waukesha, Appleton, Green Bay, Shorewood and West Allis.

Milwaukee County has also authorized its sheriff's department to impound vehicles involved in reckless driving offenses, extending the program beyond municipal police enforcement.

Source: https://www.wpr.org