RV & Boat Parking: Des Plaines vs Evanston
How do rv & boat parking rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Evanston, IL?
Des Plaines and Evanston have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines residents may park a travel trailer, camper, recreational vehicle, boat, or moving trailer on the public street directly in front of their dwelling only for loading or unloading, for no more than 24 hours, and must first notify the police department.
View full Des Plaines rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston restricts parking of recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, and campers on residential property. RVs and boats may not be stored in front yards or on the street for extended periods. Storage is permitted in rear yards and enclosed garages only, with size and screening requirements.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | City Code 7-3-2 | - |
| Street Time Limit | 24 hours (loading/unloading only) | - |
| Notice Required | Police department before parking | - |
| Proposed (2025) | 1 RV per lot; no living/utilities | - |
| Front Yard | - | No RV/boat storage |
| Rear Yard | - | Permitted with screening |
| Street Parking | - | 48 hours max for loading |
| Occupancy | - | No living in parked RVs |
| Contact | - | (847) 448-4311 Code Enforcement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I park my RV or boat on the street in front of my Des Plaines house?
Only for loading or unloading, for up to 24 hours, and only after notifying the Des Plaines Police Department (Section 7-3-2). It cannot be left there for storage.
Are RVs allowed to be lived in while parked in Des Plaines?
Under rules advanced by the City Council in 2025, RVs may not be used for sleeping or day-to-day living and may not connect to gas, water, sewer, or septic services while parked in the city.
Evanston FAQ
Can I park my RV in my driveway in Evanston IL?
No. RVs and boats may not be stored in front yards or areas visible from the street. Storage is limited to rear yards with adequate screening or enclosed garages.
How long can an RV be parked on the street in Evanston?
On-street parking for RVs and boats is limited to 48 hours, typically for loading and unloading purposes only. Extended street storage is prohibited.
Can I live in an RV on my property in Evanston?
No. Evanston prohibits using parked recreational vehicles as living quarters on residential property. RVs must be used for transportation and recreation only.
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