Lake County, IN Parking Rules: RV & Boat Parking (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- Unincorporated Lake County only
- RV on site >180 days
- Counts as 'development'
- RV park (2+ RVs)
- Needs Master Planned Development
- Governing body
- Lake County Plan Commission
- Code
- UDO No. 2560
Summary
Lake County's UDO sets no blanket ban on keeping an RV, camper, or boat at your home in unincorporated areas, but a recreational vehicle occupied or installed on a site more than 180 days is treated as 'development' needing approval. Off-street storage areas may require screening from R-zoned lots.
Installing a manufactured home on a site, preparing a site for a manufactured housing unit or installing a recreational vehicle on a site for more than 180 days;
Full Breakdown
The Lake County Unified Development Ordinance (No. 2560) governs only unincorporated land under the Plan Commission; cities like Gary, Hammond, and Merrillville set their own RV rules. The UDO treats installing a recreational vehicle on a site for more than 180 days as 'Development, Land,' which triggers permit review. A dedicated recreational-vehicle park (2+ RVs) is only allowed as a Master Planned Development. Outdoor storage areas near residential (R) districts must be screened. Personal RV/boat storage on your own residential lot is otherwise allowed if the vehicle stays operable, licensed, and out of prohibited setback areas.
Violations & Fines
Civil zoning citation after a 15-day cure notice; fine up to $2,500 first violation, $7,500 subsequent, each day a separate offense (IC 36-1-3-8).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I park my boat in my driveway?
Does the county limit how long an RV can sit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lake County
How Lake County compares: Cities with the Strictest Parking Rules·Compare Lake County to another location·View the Indiana parking rules overview
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