If you’re an RV or motorhome owner, perhaps your biggest question is: how long can you park a motorhome on the street? Whether you live in your RV full-time, have just returned from a trip, or are preparing to leave on one, street parking laws can be confusing—and the regulations differ by city, county, and even neighborhood.
At Custom-way, we perform RV repair, maintenance, and upgrades in California, and we hear this question often from our clients. So let’s get to the facts.
There’s No Universal Rule
There isn’t a single federal or even state-wide law that regulates street parking for motorhomes. Instead, any city or municipality can have its own parking regulations.
For example:
In Los Angeles, it is illegal to park an RV or motorhome on the street between 2 AM and 6 AM in residential areas without a valid overnight parking permit.
In San Diego, street parking for larger vehicles like RVs is generally limited to 4 hours, and overnight parking is not allowed unless you get a special permit.
In the majority of small California cities, RVs are allowed to park on public streets, though only for a period of 72 hours, and as long as they’re not in front of driveways, fire hydrants, or blocking traffic.
⏰ Standard Time Limits
It does vary by location, but here are some standard street parking time limits for motorhomes in California and the United States:
| Location Type | Common Limit |
|---|---|
| Residential areas | 24 to 72 hours |
| Commercial zones | Often prohibited |
| Near parks or beaches | 2 to 4 hours (max) |
| Overnight street parking | Requires a permit |
Custom-way Pro Tip: Unsure of your local rules? Call your local parking authority or visit your city’s website. Fines for illegal RV parking are in the hundreds of dollars—and in some cases, your motorhome will be towed.
What About RV Living on the Street?
Living in an RV on a public road is a legal gray area. Overnight sleeping in a vehicle is illegal in most cities, especially in residential neighborhoods. Authorities can issue citations, fines, or even tow the RV.
✅ How to Stay Street-Legal
To avoid any problems, here’s what we recommend at CustomWay:
- Move the RV every 48-72 hours, even if only down the street.
- Don’t block driveways, fire hydrants, or sidewalks.
- Utilize RV storage lots or your own driveway when feasible.
- Acquire local RV parking permits where relevant.
- Avoid hooking up to public utilities or running generators on the street.
Need Mobile RV Repairs While Parked?
If your motorhome is already parked on the street in California, and you need mobile RV repair, electrical diagnostics, roof sealing, solar installation, or other services, Custom-way can come to you.
We offer mobile RV service, keeping motorhome owners comfortable and compliant—wherever you’re parked.
Serving California RV Owners with Care
Based in Huntington Park, CA, Custom-way is your premier resource for RV maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. Whether you’re parked at a campsite, in front of your house, or on the road, our experienced crew is here to help.
Call us now for mobile RV service or free consultation: