Zoning & Compliance Overview for New Hosts
Understanding How RV Overnights Fits Into Local Regulations
RV Overnights is designed to be a simple, low-impact way for small businesses to attract new customers, all without triggering complex zoning requirements. Below is a quick guide to how our program typically fits within most local regulations across the U.S. and Canada.
✅ Not a Campground. Not a Rental.
Our program is structured around a simple idea: offering a free overnight parking space to a traveling RVer in exchange for their support of your business. It’s not a rental, and you’re not charging for the space. That distinction helps avoid many of the local rules that apply to campgrounds or RV parks.
✅ No Utilities or Hookups Required
RVers who use our platform are “self-contained,” meaning they don’t need electricity, water, or sewer to stay overnight. Most stays are true boondocking, which means just a safe, flat place to park for the night. That helps avoid any health department or infrastructure concerns.
✅ No Public Use
Our hosts offer private, invitation-based parking for members who request a stay. Every stay must be approved by you before it happens. This is not public parking, which further helps you stay within typical land use guidelines.
✅ Guests Are Customers, Not Tenants
There’s no lease, no long-term use, and no residential aspect to these stays. Guests are encouraged to support your business during their visit—whether that’s a purchase in your store, a tasting, a farm tour, or another experience.
✅ Consistent with Many Existing Zoning Models
In most communities, offering temporary overnight parking to customers, particularly when there’s no fee and no services, is treated no differently than a delivery truck in your lot overnight or a car parked during a business event.
For example, in San Luis Obispo County, California, programs like RV Overnights was initially reviewed under the lens of “campground” zoning. Once officials understood the self-contained, non-transactional nature of the program, they confirmed it complied with local code and required no permit.
🛑 Local Rules Always Win
While the program is designed to stay well within common zoning parameters, it’s always a good idea to check with your local municipality if you’re concerned or unsure. In our experience, 99% of hosts never encounter any issues.
✅ Need Help? We’ve Got Your Back
Our team is happy to assist if you run into questions from local officials. We can provide member guidelines, program details, and anything else you need to explain how RV Overnights works.