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How to Live in an RV on Your Own Land? Find Out the Answer

Written by Philip Lopez / Fact checked by Paul Lemaire

how to live in an rv on your own land

I have always dreamt of living in an RV, creating many interesting activities myself in the backyard. Although we live in a tiny space, we still have modern appliances like a real house. Moreover, we can travel anywhere immediately if we want and pay less than other ways of journeys.

I have found many ways to make my dream come true, and I have concluded that we need to notice the legality of your country. You are ready to enjoy this new life, but you just don’t know how to do it. So in this article, I’m glad to share specifics about my experiences on how to live in an RV on your land.

Understand the Legality About Living in an RV

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According to American law, you are allowed to park and live in an RV on your own land. However, if you want to live in the RV full time, you will likely be breaking the law. Even if that is your land, you are not allowed to use the RV as a permanent house. This law is applied strictly in urban areas because your neighbors can feel uncomfortable when their view is prevented. On the other hand, rural areas will be the best place for you to park the RV.

Why is it illegal when living in the RV in your backyard? Because the government doesn’t classify it as a permanent house, it is more the same as a vehicle than a dwelling. According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the RV is just used as purposes like entertainment, camping, travel, permanent residence, etc. So, living in your RV full-time isn’t fit in the eyes of the law.

How to Live in the RV on Your Own Land

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The most important thing you should care about when living in an RV is the law. If you try to break it, you may have to sell your RV. So, to live in it full-time with the legality of the law, you need to equip some pieces of information:

  • Check the laws of the State and Local

Some states and countries allow you to park, and inhabit the RV full-time; however, you need to buy a plot of land first. You can find this plot of land in RV parks or acceptable positions for camping. Moreover, some areas permit you to park there for a long time if you agree to move your RV a couple of times for a couple of days.

  • Find a peace location

Often, we want to live in an RV for traveling easier and finding beautiful locations for camping. Although it sounds wonderful, it will pose some difficult challenges and unexpected risks that you couldn’t overcome with ease. If you choose to park your vehicle in a secluded area, it becomes a prime target for thieves to intrude and take your properties. Hence, it is better off seeking a plot of land near a town. You can not only enjoy your own secluded lifestyle but also take advantage of community benefits.

  • Take care of appliances

Before buying any lands to park your RV, you should check that you have access to the basic necessities, including internet services, fresh water, electricity, cell phone, septic system, etc.

Understand About HOA

HOA – A homeowners’ association is an organization in a planned community that performs and implements regulations for the properties and their residents. If you become a member of this association, you will be offered services managed by it including RV parking options, fresh water, trash removal, common area maintenance, etc. HOA will be the easiest way for you to live in the RV with full services and legality. Moreover, HOA will charge some fees depending on the size of your RV. The RVs are classified into these classes:

Class A: The Class A RV is designed on vehicle chassis. It runs on gas or diesel. It is the biggest size of RV, and usually expensive, luxurious. The RV contains full of home amenities, so it becomes the best choice to travel for many days. The size of Class A RV: from 21 to 45 feet long.

Class B: The Class B RV is the smallest type among others. So, it is suitable for small families that have 2-4 members. The RV still has necessary appliances like cooking facilities, mini-fridge, folding beds, and heating unit. The size of Class B RV: from 17 to 19 feet.

Class C: The size of Class C RV is middle between Class A and Class B. This vehicle runs on a gas-powered engine. It is full of facilities as Class A. The size of Class C RV: from 20 to 31 feet.

Conclusion

You can find more information about the fees and benefits of HOA on its website. Living in an RV won’t just be a dream if you dare to make it come true. Besides, you ought to care about the law of your local place to avoid unexpected situations and protect yourself from outside dangers.

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