In Georgia, there is no specific statewide law that prohibits sleeping in your car. Generally, this means it is legal to sleep in your vehicle at the state level. However, the legality of car sleeping depends heavily on local ordinances, property ownership, and the circumstances of where and how you park.
Local governments in Georgia, such as cities and counties, may have their own rules regarding overnight parking, loitering, vagrancy, and trespassing. In larger cities like Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta, Columbus, and Athens, local ordinances may make sleeping in your car risky, especially in public or highly visible areas. Sleeping in your car on private property, such as store parking lots or residential streets, without the owner’s permission is considered trespassing and may result in fines or your vehicle being towed. Many municipalities also prohibit overnight stays in public parks or on city streets, so it is important to check for posted signs and local regulations before parking overnight.
At highway rest areas, Georgia allows overnight parking for “normal, customary, and temporary use.” You can sleep in your car at a rest area, but camping outside your vehicle is not permitted. Visitor Information Centers typically prohibit overnight parking due to limited operating hours. Parking on the shoulder of highways or roads for sleeping purposes may violate traffic laws and can be dangerous.
If you are found sleeping in your car while intoxicated, you can still be charged with DUI in Georgia. The law considers whether you are in “actual physical control” of the vehicle, which can include factors such as sitting in the driver’s seat, having the keys in the ignition or within reach, or if the engine is running. To reduce risk, do not sit in the driver’s seat, keep keys out of reach, and ensure the engine is off.
Safer and more legal alternatives for overnight car sleeping include campgrounds and RV parks, which provide amenities and security, as well as truck stops that often allow overnight parking. Some businesses, like Walmart or Cracker Barrel, may permit overnight parking, but you should always ask for permission first.
| Location Type | Legal to Sleep Overnight? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Public Rest Areas | Yes | For temporary rest; no camping outside vehicle |
| Visitor Info Centers | No | Overnight parking prohibited |
| Private Property | Only with permission | Otherwise considered trespassing |
| City Streets/Public Parks | Usually No | Check local ordinances and posted signs |
| Campgrounds/RV Parks | Yes | Fees may apply; safer and legal |
| Business Parking Lots | With permission | Always ask store manager first |
There is no statewide ban on sleeping in your car in Georgia, but local laws may restrict or prohibit it in certain areas. Rest areas are generally safe for short-term car sleeping, but not for extended stays or camping. Sleeping while intoxicated can still lead to a DUI charge if you are considered in control of the vehicle. Always check for local regulations and obtain permission when parking on private property to avoid fines, towing, or legal trouble.
Sources
[1] https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/sleep-car-georgia-know-090652449.html
[2] https://www.southernharvestinsurance.com/blog/auto-insurance/is-it-legal-to-sleep-in-your-car-in-georgia/
[3] https://www.classiccitynews.com/post/the-legality-of-car-sleeping-in-georgia-what-you-need-to-know
[4] https://www.boondockersbible.com/learn/georgia-rest-area-rules/
[5] https://atlantaduirich.com/can-you-sleep-in-your-car-while-drunk-without-getting-a-dui-in-georgia/
