Carmel, IN Parking Rules: RV & Boat Parking (2026)

Carmel addresses recreational vehicle, boat and trailer storage through its Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 25, Additional Use Regulations) rather than only the traffic chapter. A recreational vehicle is defined as a single-chassis structure of 400 square feet or less, designed for recreational camping, travel or seasonal use rather than permanent dwelling, including travel trailers, camping trailers, truck campers, motor homes, boats and boat trailers. The City's code-enforcement guidance states recreational vehicles may not be stored any closer to a lot line than three times the maximum height of the vehicle unless fully enclosed. Non-motorized recreational vehicles (such as boat trailers and travel trailers) may not be stored on a public right-of-way at any time, while motorized recreational vehicles may be stored on a public right-of-way for a period not to exceed ten days per month. The vehicle is generally expected to be parked or stored on the driveway or in the garage. These standards exist primarily to preserve the residential character of Carmel's neighborhoods and to keep large recreational equipment out of front-yard greenspace and the traveled roadway.