In Vermont, the legality of sleeping in your car—often called “car sleeping”—depends largely on local laws and the specific location where you park. According to Vermont state law, overnight camping is prohibited on public highway rights-of-way, rest areas associated with public highways, and other public lands that are not explicitly designated for camping. Violating this law can result in fines up to $50 per day.
Municipalities in Vermont may have their own parking ordinances that further restrict overnight parking on city streets. For example, in the city of Rutland, overnight parking on certain streets and within the central business district is prohibited between specific hours, especially during winter months when snow removal is critical. Cities like Winooski and Barre have well-defined parking regulations that may include fines and towing for vehicles that are parked illegally overnight.
Parking lots affiliated with public transit or park-and-ride facilities generally prohibit overnight camping and abandoned vehicles, though some allow parking 24/7 for transit use only. Similarly, institutions like the University of Vermont have their own rules restricting overnight parking in campus lots.
Because regulations can vary between municipalities and specific parking areas, it is crucial for anyone planning to sleep in their vehicle overnight to carefully check local ordinances and posted signs. Sleeping in a car parked legally on private property is generally allowed with the property owner’s permission, but public spaces often have restrictions intended to prevent overnight camping or loitering.
While Vermont law prohibits overnight camping on public highways and certain public lands, local regulations may further limit or prohibit sleeping in a car overnight on streets and parking lots. Fines and towing are possible penalties for violations. Seeking permission for overnight parking on private property and being aware of municipal rules are important steps to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues when considering car sleeping in Vermont.
Sources
(https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/19/011/01106)
(https://www.rutlandcity.org/government/parking-information/)
(https://www.winooskivt.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2584/Chapter-15-Parking)
(https://vpta.net/park-and-ride-locations)
(https://www.uvm.edu/transportation/parking-rules-and-regulations)6
