Cary, NC Parking Rules: RV & Boat Parking (2026)

The Town of Cary, in Wake County, handles boat and RV storage through its Land Development Ordinance, so the rule turns on where on the lot the vehicle sits. Section 5.3.2(D)(3) applies to the storage or parking of all boats, recreational vehicles, and utility or travel trailers, along with other vehicles allowed by the same Section.

The provision names the acceptable locations. Location (a) is a side yard, and the text expressly says this does not include corner side yards. Even in an ordinary side yard, the boat, RV or trailer cannot sit closer to the front of the lot or to the street than the principal structure does. The house itself sets the line: a trailer parked beside the house complies only if it stays even with or behind the front of that structure. Location (b) is a rear yard.

The provision then states what is off limits. Storage shall not occur within a front yard, and it shall not occur within a side or rear building setback. A side or rear yard spot is therefore not automatically compliant in Cary. Where part of that yard falls inside a required building setback, the boat or trailer has to sit outside that part.

Corner lots get separate treatment because a corner side yard faces a street. Under the LDO, storage in a corner side yard, or in a rear yard facing a public street, must sit behind screening: an opaque fence in the 6-8 foot range (at least 6 feet tall) or evergreen trees.