Vancouver, WA Parking Rules: RV & Boat Parking (2026)

VMC 17.14.290(B) sets four conditions. First, the vehicle, boat or trailer must be parked, kept or stored on an improved all weather surface, which the chapter defines as asphalt, concrete, pavers or other surface approved by the planning official. Second, it cannot go in the required front yard setback, except on a legally established driveway that is located out of the sight triangles under 20.985 VMC, does not extend into City right-of-way, and is currently licensed and registered. An unlicensed or unregistered trailer therefore loses the driveway exception.

Third, side and rear yard setback parking is allowed so long as emergency responders can access all sides of a structure. Fourth, access must come through an approved driveway approach and an improved all weather surface, and the parking must be screened from the street and adjoining properties by a 6' sign obsuring fence or hedge, wording that is printed in the code as shown.

The chapter defines a recreational vehicle as a travel trailer, motor home, camper, camping trailer, tent trailer or horse trailer that can be used as temporary living quarters, is self-propelled or mounted on or drawn by another vehicle, is transient, and is not permanently affixed to a manufactured or mobile home lot.

Living in the vehicle is limited by VMC 17.14.300. Recreational vehicles must be fully self-contained, and no motor home, camper or other recreational vehicle can be occupied for more than fourteen days in any calendar year on premises unless VMC Title 20 authorizes it. Occupancy is allowed in a manufactured home park or RV park with permitted recreational vehicle spaces. No person can occupy a marine craft except in an approved marina or moorage approved for residential occupancy.

On the street, VMC 19.12.080 bars trailers, travel trailers and motor homes from residential streets, and VMC 19.10.070 lets the city manager issue a free special permit for repair or sleeping purposes: seven days, renewable for up to seven additional days in any one calendar year, for emergency repair requiring more than eight hours or a guest visiting a city resident.