Can You Live in an RV on Your Own Land? What You Need to Know Before You Buy

Thinking of RV living on raw land? Learn what's allowed, what zoning rules apply, and how to do it legally anywhere in the U.S.

One of the most common questions we hear from land buyers is:

“Can I park my RV and live on the land I just bought?”

The answer? It depends.

Living in an RV on your own land is possible in many parts of the U.S., but it’s not as simple as just parking and setting up. Local zoning laws, land use regulations, and utility requirements vary by county, city, and state, and they’ll determine whether you can legally stay in your RV—and for how long.

In this post, we’ll break down the key things to know before buying land with dreams of RV life.

First, Why RV Living on Land Appeals to So Many

RV living offers:

Freedom from rising rents or mortgages
A minimalist, off-grid lifestyle
The ability to live on your land while you build
A basecamp for weekend getaways or travel

But even if you own the land, there are still rules about how you can use it.

Zoning Is Everything

Whether or not you can live in an RV on your land depends primarily on zoning laws.

R1 and R2 zoning (common residential zones) often have strict rules. You may need to build a permanent, permitted structure before an RV is allowed for living purposes.
In rural or agricultural zones, rules can be more relaxed—but still vary widely.

Always contact the county zoning department before you buy or move an RV onto the property.

Can You Hook Up Utilities?

In many areas, long-term RV living requires:

A septic system or connection to a sewer line
A water source (well, tank, or municipal)
Safe electricity hookups (solar, grid, or generator)

Some counties will only allow an RV once these systems are approved and permitted.

Temporary Use vs. Full-Time Living

Some counties allow temporary RV use while:

You build a home
You’re vacationing or hunting
There’s an emergency

Others may restrict RV stays to a specific number of days per year (e.g., 30–180 days), especially in unincorporated areas or land with no structure.

Tips Before Buying Land for RV Use

Call the county’s planning or zoning office. Ask:
- Is full-time RV living allowed?
- Are there restrictions for this zoning type?
- Do I need permits or utility hookups?
Get the answers in writing or on the county’s official website.
Don’t assume rural means unrestricted. Every county enforces its own version of the rules.

Final Thoughts

Living in an RV on your land is one of the most affordable and flexible ways to own property—but only if you do it by the book.

Whether you’re looking to homestead, live off-grid, or have a weekend basecamp, always check the local rules first. Understanding what’s allowed in your zoning district will save you frustration, fines, or forced removal down the line.

Want land that’s RV-friendly? We’re here to help you find it.