Behchokǫ̀, Northwest Territories – Residents have until June 17 to get paid for removing old, broken-down vehicles from their yards, with the community government offering $125 per vehicle plus free towing and disposal. The one-month derelict vehicle program started May 19 and aims to cut fire risks and clean up neighbourhoods. Senior Administrative Officer Pushp Seth is urging people to use the final five days to book a pickup.
The Community Government of Behchokǫ̀ says abandoned and inoperable vehicles sitting on private lots are a serious fire threat and environmental hazard. “We have noticed increased abandoned and inoperable vehicles on private lots, which pose a significant fire threat and environmental hazard,” Seth stated when the program was announced. The $125 incentive is paid by direct deposit only, and the program covers towing and disposal costs.
To qualify, the vehicle must be registered at a Behchokǫ̀ address, and the legal owner must sign a waiver and show proof of ownership, even older documents. The deal is only for individual residents – commercial vehicles and any damaged in wildfires are not eligible. The exclusion likely affects some households after major wildfires hit the Tłıchǫ region in 2023.
Residents can call the Administration Office at 867-392-6500 to schedule a removal. With five days left, it remains unclear how many vehicles have been taken away so far or what will happen to those left behind. The community government has not said if it will issue fines or tow remaining vehicles after the deadline.
