Can You Live In An RV On Someone’s Property?

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Last Updated on November 9, 2020 by Ted Mosby

Are you bored living in your house and considering to live in your RV on someone else’s property? If you have answered yes, you should also know that living in an RV on someone else’s property is like living in a grey area.

That said, most people who are considering living in their RV have no clue about rules and regulations. Yes, there are some rules and regulations when it comes to living in an RV, and you have to consider them. In fact, there are more rules for living in an RV than living in your own house.

Can I live in an RV on someone else’s property? This is the question that I heard the most from different RV owners.

Although the simple answer is yes, it is more complicated than that. If you are also considering to live in an RV on someone else’s property, this guide is for you. Below, I will explain everything running in your mind that will help you with your RV living.

can you live in an rv on someone's property

So, let’s get started!

Can You Live In An RV On Someone’s Property? Is It Legal?

Living in an RV on someone’s property is like living in a gray area. So, when it comes to determining whether it is legal living in an RV on someone else’s property, the answer is both yes and no. There are some states that don’t allow you to live in an RV all year round.

If you are living in an RV in a rural area, it would be considered legal, or local authorities will ignore you. However, in urban areas, the answer is no, it is not legal to live in an RV. However, whatever the case is, you have to check the local ordinance if you are going to live in an RV on someone else’s property.

Figure Out the Zoning Laws

Zoning

The very important thing when you are considering living in an RV is to get information about your location laws. This will help you to save both money and time. You don’t want to run yourself into trouble or get a fine. You should know that some places don’t allow you to live in an RV on someone else’s property.

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The easiest way to know your zoning laws is to get ahold of the local courthouse. However, if they don’t have enough information, which is most unlikely to happen, they will refer you to someone who can help you.

Another way to get information about zoning laws and the location you want to live in is to do a search on your own. You will get some useful information that will help you with your RV living. If you have enough information, you will save yourself from a lot of trouble.

Accessibility to Road and Utilities

The second important factor to consider is having access to roads and utilities. No matter you are going to park your RV and live in, make sure you have convenient access to road and utilities. Convenient access to the road means you will be able to easily get to the road, which is also important in terms of safety.

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This means in case of any emergency, you will be able to get help as soon as possible. For instance, in case of emergency circumstances, an ambulance or police can easily track your location to get you out of danger. So, you should always park your RV in a location from where you have easy and quick access to the road.

On the other hand, access to utilities means you should park your RV for living in a place where you have access to basic utilities, such as consumable water and electricity. If you are considering living in an RV on someone else’s property, make sure you have the option to hook up your vehicle to the house.

This means you will be able to keep your batteries charged and appliances running, while also getting freshwater into your RV’s water tank.

Federal and State Laws

Similar to zoning laws, you are also required to have enough information regarding federal and state laws about living in an RV on someone else’s property. However, these laws are different state-by-state. You should make sure to get enough information about the state laws you are living in. This will help you keep yourself out of trouble by ensuring you are living legally.

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Ok, that are some crucial points to determine while considering living in an RV on someone else property.

Some state has friendly RV living laws, but some states have really strict laws about RV living. If you are living in South Dakota, Florida, or Texas, you are lucky because the RV living laws of these states aren’t that strict.

But how to find someone else property for RV living?

Finding Someone Else Property to Live On Your RV

It is an intimidating task to find someone’s property for RV living. There are some best ways that you can try to find a perfect location to live on.

1. Your Family’s Property

The very first option to find a place to live in your RV is your family’s property. You can ask your family members whether they will allow you to stay on their property without any hesitation. And yes, you should also mention rent that you are willing to pay.

2. Your Friends Property

The second option is for your friends. If you don’t have a family or you don’t want to stay at their property for whatever the reason is, you can approach your friends. Although it is an awkward situation asking your friends to let you live on their property, you should ask them if you really want to experience RV living.

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Regardless of how close you are to them, never forget to offer them rent. After all, you are going to use their electricity and water. Work out on other details before moving on to their property.

3. Local Newspaper Ads

If none of the above-stated ideas works for you, the last option that you can try is to look into ads in local newspapers. There are many people willing to rent out their space for RVers who want to experience RV living. If you have found someone else property where you can park and live on, make sure the person willing to let you stay at their property is trustworthy.

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Wrapping Up

That is all about living in an RV on someone else’s property. Although living in an RV is quite an amazing experience, but you have to find an appropriate place first where you can park your RV. The laws regarding RV living depends on what state you are living in. Some states have friendly laws, and others are strict. You have to follow the local ordinances to keep yourself out of trouble. Moreover, before you move onto someone else’s property, make sure the place is safe and the property owner is trustworthy. Furthermore, you should also make sure that you’ve easy access to the road and utilities that will be helpful in emergency circumstances.

FAQs

What states have friendly RV living laws to let you live in your RV?

The states with friendly RV living laws include South Dakota, Florida, and Texas. These states have no income tax, and it will be easier for you to get domicile status.

Can I use my RV for a permanent living?

As per the Department of Housing and Urban Development laws, recreational vehicles can only be used for camping and traveling purposes. It means you cannot use your RV for permanent living. However, living in your RV in rural areas is easy as they don’t have strict laws regarding living in an RV.

Can I save money living in an RV?

Living in an RV means you have to sacrifice some amenities, luxuries, and space that you have in your home. But yes, you can save a bit of money by living in an RV.

What place should I choose to live in an RV?

If you are considering living in an RV, you should find a safe and convenient place. Make sure that you’ve easy and quick access to the road, and basic utilities, such as water and electricity, are available. Moreover, you should also know about zoning laws, so you don’t run yourself in any legal trouble.

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About Ted Mosby

I am Ted Mosby from Cleveland, Ohio. I am a Freelance Architect. I live in New Jersey, USA right now and I take my RV every alternate weekend. I own a Forest River Berkshire XLT Diesel 45A Class A Motorhome. As I am a Freelancer I can work anywhere so most of my work is done inside my camper remotely.