Can You Live In An RV In Florida? [RV Zoning Law In Florida] (2023)

Many people dream of living in an RV full-time but are unsure if it’s possible to do so in a specific state. People often wonder if they can live in their RV full-time in a certain state. If you are one of those living in Florida, we are here to assist!

You can live in an RV in Florida as long as you aren’t violating any local zoning laws or HOA rules. You’ll need to ensure you have a place to park your RV, and you may need to get a permit from your local government. Be sure to check with your local authorities before setting up camp.

We’ve compiled all the information you need to know about living in your RV full-time in Florida. From the types of Recreational Vehicles suitable for the climate to the best places to stay, we’ve got you covered. Let’s give it a read!

Is It Legal To Live In An RV With A Child In Florida?

Technically, no law in Florida that specifically prohibits a parent from living in an RV with their child. However, if you are divorced and have shared custody of your child, you will need to ensure that doing so does not violate the terms of your custody agreement.

If you do not have a formal custody agreement, you must be prepared to provide evidence to a judge that living in an RV with your child is in their best interests. In either case, it is always advisable to consult an experienced family law attorney before making any major changes to your living situation.

However, some general considerations should be considered when deciding to live in an RV with a child.

• First, the RV should be large enough to accommodate the family comfortably, and second, the family should have access to basic amenities like running water and electricity.
• Additionally, it is important to make sure that the RV is safe and clean, as children can be very susceptible to illness if they are living in unsanitary conditions and be a victim of a harmful RV life.
• Finally, it is always wise to consult with a lawyer or other legal expert to ensure that there are no local ordinances or regulations that could impact the family’s ability to live in an RV.

RV Zoning Laws Florida

It is important to know the RV zoning laws in Florida before you decide to purchase or rent an RV. These laws vary from county to county, so it is best to consult your local zoning board or city/county clerk’s office for specific information. But, a couple of guidelines apply to everyone in Florida:

Registration

RVs must be registered with the county in which they are parked. The registration process is simple and can usually be done online or in person at the county courthouse. You must provide proof of ownership, insurance, and a valid driver’s license. There is usually a fee for registration, but it is typically very reasonable.

If you plan to use your RV as a residence, there are several other laws that you will need to follow.

Pro Tip: You will need to obtain a permit from the local building department to hook your RV to utilities such as water, sewer, or electricity.

Compliance With Local Zoning Regulations

You must comply with all local zoning regulations, including those governing using RVs as residences. They must have a certain number of sites available to accommodate RVs. Some counties also require that the RV park or campground have a certain amount of shade and vegetation.

RV parks and campgrounds are typically located in rural areas. However, some are located in urban areas. So, you need to confirm if there are any special requirements for RV parks and campgrounds in your area.

In general, RVs can be parked on any piece of own property that is zoned for residential use. This includes driveways, parking lots, and even vacant land. However, there may be restrictions on how long you can park your RV on someone else’s property. Getting permission from the owner before you park your RV on their property is always best.

See Also: Parking RV In Backyard: Is It Legal To Park In My Own Driveway?

Full Time RV Parks in Florida

Full-time RV parks in Florida are becoming increasingly popular as people decide to hit the road and explore America. Here are seven full-time RV parks in Florida that offer great amenities and beautiful locations.

Big Tree RV Park

Big Tree RV Park has pull-thru sites to make parking a breeze, plus they are pet-friendly, so your four-legged friend can come along for fun. Their electric hookups are perfect for RVs, and the 50 AMP service will keep you powered up all weekend long. And when it’s time to freshen up, their clean restrooms and showers will make you feel right at home.

Pecan Park RV Resort

Pecan Park RV Resort is the perfect place to enjoy all Jacksonville offers. They are surrounded by beautiful parks and offer all the comforts of home. Their resort is family-friendly and offers a variety of amenities for everyone. This top-notch RV resort offers free parking and high-speed internet, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

You can dip in the pool or let your furry friend run around in the dog-friendly park. And when it’s time to do some laundry, there’s no need to go to a laundromat – use the self-serve laundry facilities on site.

Palm Beach RV Park

In Palm Beach RV park, you can enjoy all that the outdoors offers with beautiful weather year-round. Their clubhouse is the perfect place to socialize with fellow RVers, and their laundry facility and shuffleboard courts will keep you busy. You can relax by the patio and pool area or take your pup for a walk in the designated dog walk area.

Check Out What is RV Living REALLY like in the FLORIDA KEYS? 🌴?:

Bickley RV Park

Bickley RV Park’s full hook-up sites are large and shaded, with 30 and 50 AMP service. They have a heated swimming pool, dog park, BBQ area, and clean restrooms with hot showers. Their recreation room features a pool table, shuffleboard, and board games. And don’t forget their Tuesday Coffee Social – the perfect chance to meet your fellow RVers!

Bay Bayou

If you are looking for a fun and unique way to enjoy the outdoors, then come to Bay Bayou! They offer a heated pool, a swimming and fishing stream, and a beautiful body of water for kayaking or canoeing. Their horseshoe pits are perfect for family gatherings or friendly competition, and their rec hall is great for planned activities or playing shuffleboard.

Riverside Lodge Resort

Riverside Lodge Resort is the perfect place to stay for those who want to explore the great outdoors. Located in Inverness, the resort offers free parking and free high-speed internet. Plenty of activities keep guests entertained, including boating, canoeing, and a children’s playground. The resort is also pet-friendly, so guests can bring their furry friends along for the trip.

Lake Magic RV Resort

This beautiful resort offers free parking, a sparkling pool, tennis courts, and even a laundry service for your convenience. And best of all, it’s pet-friendly so that you can bring your furry friend along for fun! Whether you’re looking to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine or stay active with plenty of activities, Lake Magic RV Resort is the perfect place.

Florida Counties That Allow RV Living

All 67 counties in Florida allow RV living, each with its own set of laws dictating its rules and regulations. The most popular counties for RV living include Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, DeSoto, Lee, Marion, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach; let’s check them so you know about the company’s regulations before setting up camp.

Brevard County, Florida

Brevard County is located on the central east coast of Florida. The county seat is Titusville. Brevard County is home to Kennedy Space Center, Port Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, Brevard Zoo, and several state and national parks. The county allows RV camping in all of its public parks with a permit.

Charlotte County

The county seat is Punta Gorda, and the county includes the cities of Port Charlotte and Englewood. Charlotte County allows RV camping on public beaches, provided that campers obtain a permit from the county. There are also several private RV parks and campgrounds in the county.

Citrus County

Citrus County allows RV living in all of its unincorporated areas with some restrictions. You can only stay for a maximum of 21 days in any location, and you must get a permit from the county if you plan to stay for more than 14 days. You must also follow the county’s health and safety regulations, which include having a working septic tank and being connected to the power grid.

Collier County

Florida’s southernmost county, Collier, is home to some of the state’s most popular Collier County tourist destinations. The county seat is Naples, and the county includes the cities of Marco Island and Everglades City.

Collier County allows RV camping on public beaches, provided that campers obtain a permit from the county. There are also some private RV parks and campgrounds in the county. It is home to many popular tourist destinations, including Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades National Park. There are several RV parks in the county that allow long-term stays.

DeSoto County

DeSoto County is located in Southwest Florida and is known for its rural setting and abundance of lakes. Camping is allowed on all single-family residential properties in all zoning districts. However, the camping unit must be located on an improved surface such as concrete, asphalt, or gravel; there must be only one camping unit on anyone.

Finally, the camping unit must be connected to utilities necessary for its operation, including sanitary sewer, water, and electricity; The camping unit complies with all setback requirements for the zoning district in which it is located.

Lee County

Lee County is home to many popular tourist destinations; camping is permitted in all zoning districts, except for the beach and shoreline area as delineated by the mean high water line.

Parks are designated as “no camping” areas. Camping is permitted for a period not to exceed 14 days in any 30-day period. All campfires must be contained in a fire ring or grill and shall not be left unattended.

Marion County

Marion County is located in Central Florida and is known for its horse farms and Ocala National Forest. Marion County does not allow RVs to be parked on residential property, but they can be parked in campgrounds or RV parks. There are also rules about how long an RV can be parked in one spot.

Miami-Dade County

With some restrictions, Miami-Dade County allows RV living in all of its unincorporated areas. You can only stay for a maximum of 30 days in any location, and you must get a permit from the county if you plan to stay for more than 14 days. You must also follow the county’s health and safety regulations, which include having a working septic tank and being connected to the power grid.

Palm Beach County

Palm Beach County is home to some of the best RV camping options in West Palm Beach. Palm Beach County is a popular tourist destination, including West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, and Jupiter. There are several RV parks in the county that allow long-term stays.

Related Questions

The Bottom Line

So, you can live in an RV in Florida. You will need to find a campsite or RV park that has hookups for water, sewer, and electricity. Plus, you’ll need to ensure that you have the proper insurance. You should also consider investing in a storage shed or garage to protect your RV from the elements. With a little planning, you can live in an RV in Florida! Just make sure to do your research and be prepared for the cost of living in an RV.