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Monterey County, CA Parking Rules: RV & Boat Parking (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified June 2026

Key Facts

Applies to
Unincorporated Monterey County only
Zoning chapter
21.57 (inland) / 20.57 (coastal)
RV definition
County Code 20.06.930
Street time limit
72 hours (Veh. Code 22651(k))
Report to
Monterey County Sheriff's Office

Summary

Unincorporated Monterey County zoning treats RVs, boats, and trailers as 'major recreational equipment.' Chapter 21.57 (inland) and 20.57 (coastal) regulate parking and storage of this equipment in residential 'RES' districts. On public streets, an unmoved RV or boat trailer is reportable to the Sheriff after 72 hours under California Vehicle Code rules.

City-specific rules exist: Salinas has its own rv & boat parking rules that differ from Monterey County's county-level regulations. If you live in Salinas, check the city-specific page instead.

To screen: To shelter or locate in such a way that major recreational equipment is made not obtrusive, not conspicuous, not glaring, not visually intrusive. It does not mean to completely hide but it does mean to curtain, fence, mask, shade, or camouflage, or put into the background, so that the recreational equipment is not immediately apparent from adjacent properties and roads used by the public.

Full Breakdown

' These provisions apply only in the unincorporated county, separate from the City of Monterey. On public roads, the county does not impose a special RV ordinance; instead, the California Vehicle Code controls. 72 and Vehicle Code Sections 22660, 22661, and 22669. Property owners storing recreational equipment in residential zones should confirm the specific setback and storage limits for their zoning district before parking long-term.

Violations & Fines

An RV or boat trailer left on a public street more than 72 hours can be cited and towed under Vehicle Code Section 22651(k). Improperly stored RVs, trailers, campers, and boats on private property are reportable to the Sheriff and may be abated under Chapter 12.72. Storage of major recreational equipment in residential 'RES' districts must comply with the zoning limits of Chapter 21.57 (inland) or 20.57 (coastal).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I park my RV or boat on the street in front of my house?
There is no special county RV street ordinance, but under California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k) any vehicle, including an RV or boat trailer, left on a public road for 72 or more consecutive hours can be cited and towed. The Monterey County Sheriff accepts reports of RVs, trailers, campers, and boats that are improperly stored.
Where can I store my RV on my own property?
Storage of 'major recreational equipment' on residential property is governed by the county zoning ordinance, Chapter 21.57 in inland areas and Chapter 20.57 in the coastal zone. Check the specific storage and setback limits for your zoning district, because these chapters set rules for RES (recreational equipment storage) districts.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Monterey County

All Monterey County rules

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