Federal Way limits on-street RV and boat trailer parking to 72 hours. In residential zones, RVs on private property must be parked on a paved or gravel surface, generally behind the front-yard setback.
On public streets in Federal Way, RVs, travel trailers, and boat trailers are subject to the same 72-hour rule as cars under RCW 46.55.010. Some neighborhoods near Steel Lake, Mirror Lake, and North Lake have additional signage prohibiting oversize vehicle parking overnight. On private residential lots, FWRC Title 19 zoning rules require recreational vehicles to be stored on an improved surface (concrete, asphalt, or gravel), generally in side or rear yards behind the front-yard setback line. Long-term occupancy of an RV as a dwelling on a residential lot is prohibited except during active construction with a temporary permit. Boats on trailers follow the same private-property storage rules. Short-term guest RV stays (typically up to 14 days) may be allowed if connected safely and not used as a permanent residence. Living in an RV at a commercial lot or industrial park is not permitted under FWRC 19.260.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Federal Way, WA
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