Fullerton RV & Boat Parking Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

The City of Fullerton Municipal Code regulates the storage and parking of recreational vehicles (RVs), boats, trailers, campers, and other oversized vehicles on both public streets and private residential property. On public streets, all vehicles — including RVs and boats on trailers — are subject to the standard 72-hour maximum parking limit under California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k). RVs or boat trailers left on residential streets beyond 72 hours may be cited and towed. On particularly narrow residential streets, oversized vehicles that obstruct traffic flow, impede sight lines at intersections, or interfere with street sweeping operations may be cited or towed even before the 72-hour limit expires if they create a safety hazard.

On private residential property, Fullerton's zoning code requires that RVs, boats, campers, and trailers be stored behind the front building setback line, which is typically 15 to 20 feet from the property line in most residential zones (R-1, R-2). This effectively requires storage in a side yard, rear yard, or enclosed garage rather than in the front driveway between the home and the street. Where side yard storage is used, the vehicle must be able to fit within the side yard setback without encroaching on required setback areas. Screening with fencing or landscaping is strongly encouraged and may be required in certain zones to minimize visual impact on the streetscape.

The municipal code prohibits using an RV, camper, travel trailer, or any similar vehicle as a permanent or temporary dwelling unit on any residential property in Fullerton. This includes occupying an RV parked on a driveway, in a yard, or on any portion of a residential lot, regardless of whether the vehicle is connected to water, sewer, or electrical utilities. Temporary overnight sleeping in an RV on private property during limited special circumstances — such as visiting family for a holiday — may be tolerated but is not explicitly permitted, and extended habitation triggers enforcement action.

Fullerton's relatively dense suburban neighborhoods, many built in the 1950s through 1970s with narrower lot widths and shorter driveways, make oversized vehicle storage challenging. The city encourages residents to utilize off-site RV and boat storage facilities, which are available at several locations in northern Orange County. Code enforcement for residential RV and boat storage violations is handled by the City of Fullerton Community Development Department at (714) 738-6531.