San Rafael, CA Parking Rules: RV & Boat Parking (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- SRMC § 14.18.190
- Front yard placement
- Only on driveway or within 12 ft
- Rear/side yard rule
- Must be screened by solid fence
- Multifamily/mobilehome parks
- Only in planning-approved RV areas
Summary
San Rafael lets homeowners park RVs, trailers and boats on residential property in Marin County, but only in set spots, driveways, screened side or rear yards, under Zoning Code § 14.18.190.
In any of the following locations, parking of recreational vehicles, camper shells, trailers, boats and other similar equipment, when parked or stored incidental to the basic residential use of the property, is permitted for loading, unloading and storage purposes providing it does not obstruct the view of pedestrians and vehicles on the adjacent sidewalk and/or street and does not otherwise constitute a nuisance. ... Recreational vehicles shall be parked in an orderly manner, generally perpendicular to the street. Parking parallel to the front property line is prohibited.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 37).
Full Breakdown
Single-family and duplex properties may keep a recreational vehicle, camper shell, trailer or boat in the garage/carport/parking space, on the driveway within the front yard setback, or in a rear or interior side yard if screened by a code-conforming solid fence. Units must sit perpendicular to the street, not parallel to the front line, may not overhang the sidewalk or right-of-way, and need a paved or gravel surface. Multifamily buildings (three or more units) and mobilehome parks may only host RV parking in areas the planning commission has specifically approved for that purpose.
Violations & Fines
Noncompliant RV, boat or trailer parking is enforced through zoning code enforcement; the city can require relocation or removal, and continuing violations are chargeable as infractions under SRMC § 1.42.010 (fine up to $500 per day).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I park my RV in my San Rafael driveway?
Does this rule apply outside San Rafael city limits?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Rafael
How San Rafael compares: Cities with the Strictest Parking Rules·California rules heatmap·Compare San Rafael to another location·View the California parking rules overview
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