RV & Boat Parking: El Cajon vs San Marcos
How do rv & boat parking rules compare between El Cajon, CA and San Marcos, CA?
El Cajon has fewer restrictions than San Marcos.
El Cajon, CA
San Diego County
El Cajon offers a free online RV parking permit system for street parking. Residents can have 3 active permits at a time, up to 52 per year. Living in an RV on private residential property is not permitted.
View full El Cajon rules →San Marcos, CA
San Diego County
San Marcos strictly prohibits parking of recreational vehicles and mobile living units on residential streets at any time. RVs are banned from all city streets between 2 AM and 6 AM. On private property, RV and boat storage must comply with zoning screening and setback requirements.
View full San Marcos rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cajon | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| Permits | Free, online system | - |
| Active | 3 at a time | - |
| Annual | 52 per year max | - |
| RV Living | Not permitted | - |
| Residential Streets | - | RVs prohibited at all times |
| All Streets Overnight | - | 2 AM – 6 AM prohibited |
| Code Section | - | SMMC 12.20.160(a) |
| On-Property Storage | - | Side/rear yard, screened |
| Sheriff Non-Emergency | - | (760) 510-5200 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cajon FAQ
Can I park my RV in my driveway in El Cajon?
El Cajon offers a free online RV parking permit system for street parking. Residents can have 3 active permits at a time, up to 52 per year. Living in an RV on private residential property is not permitted.
What are the rules for storing boats and RVs in El Cajon?
Permits: Free, online system. Active: 3 at a time. Annual: 52 per year max. RV Living: Not permitted.
San Marcos FAQ
Can I park my RV on the street in San Marcos CA?
No. San Marcos prohibits RV parking on residential streets at all times under SMMC Section 12.20.160(a). RVs are also banned from all city streets between 2 AM and 6 AM.
Where can I store my RV at my San Marcos home?
RVs may be stored on private property in side or rear yards if properly screened from public view and in compliance with zoning setback requirements. The vehicle must be registered and operable.
Can I park a boat trailer on the street in San Marcos?
Boats on trailers are subject to the same restrictions as RVs. They cannot be parked on residential streets and are prohibited on all city streets between 2 AM and 6 AM. Store boats on private property in compliance with zoning rules.
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