Sleeping in Your Car in Washington: Is It Legal? It’s something that happens a lot, be it on the road trip, during emergencies, or simply between houses: you have to sleep in your car. But is it permissible in Washington? The answer, however, isn’t as simple as “yes” or “no.
It depends on the state law, the situation, and various other factors. As someone who lives in Washington and happens to want to sleep in their car, this blog will tell everything that you need to know.
State Laws and Local Ordinances
There is no law in Washington State that says you cannot sleep in your car. Different towns and counties, though, have their own rules, and some will not let you park or sleep in your car overnight.
In bigger places such as Seattle, Tacoma, or Spokane, it’s actually against the law to sleep in your car or there’s even a limit on where you may do it.
For example, in Seattle, there have been arguments and changes over time about people who are homeless and people who live in their cars. Seattle officially lets you sleep in your car, but there are limits on where you can park.
No overnight parking” is prohibited in most places, including neighborhoods, near parks, and other public places. To avoid fines or even tows, look for local signs and familiarize yourself with the rules that apply to your city.
Private vs. Public Property
Whether you are parked on private or public land makes a huge difference in whether you can sleep in your car legally. You may be okay if you are on private land, like at a friend’s house or in the store parking lot as long as they let you.
Some stores, like Walmart, are known for letting people park their cars overnight, but this can change depending on the store’s rules. To avoid trespassing and getting a ticket, always ask for permission before parking overnight.
There are numerous laws that regulate public space like streets and parking lots. Often you cannot stay in the same spot even for long periods of time while not sleeping.
Washington highway rest stops allow you to park for as long as eight hours, which makes them a better place to take a short break. However, these stops are not meant to be permanent homes for your car.
Homelessness and Vehicle Residency
It has one of the states’ with major issues about homelessness in that, a people live inside the automobiles. Washingtonians living their lives inside automobiles have a hard time for the reason of searching for a place to spend the night due to temporary shelter in homes.
For example, in Seattle, “safe lots” have been created as parking places where people can spend the night without the risk of getting fined or their car towed.
There is a level of safety in these safe lots, with basic facilities such as bathrooms and trash cans.
Though these safe lots are legal options, sleeping in your car outside of them can still get you into legal hot water. Repeat offenses will get you fines, have your car towed, or even worse.
If you cannot find a place to live, you can call your local government or an organization that helps homeless people to find out where you can legally and safely park.
Safety and Practical Considerations
Safety should always be your first priority, even when it is allowed to sleep in your car. Avoid parking in isolated or dangerous places. Instead, look for well-lit spots that have security cameras or a lot of foot traffic.
Rest stops, campgrounds, and (with permission) business parking spots are usually safer than streets or alleys that are off limits.
Also, take heed of your own safety in your car. Lock the doors, and leave the windows slightly open so that air can flow through it. In addition, have food, water, and other basic materials in an emergency kit.
Conclusion
Sleeping in your car in Washington is an area that is in legal gray. It heavily depends on where you are.
To avoid fines or worse, research local ordinances in the cities you plan to visit. If you are unsure, check signage, ask property owners for permission, or consult local police departments for guidance on legal overnight parking spots.
