When it comes to full-time RV living in Vermont, it’s both legal and a great lifestyle for you if you’ve got wanderlust in your veins. You might have a few questions about such living. Here we’ll provide the information you need to make an informed decision and get the most out of living full time in your RV.
Please note that this is not an official source of information, and rules and regulations may have changed since the writing of this article. Please always check with your local authorities before making any long-term decisions and if you are unsure of your local laws.
Can You Live in an RV Full Time in Vermont?
Yes, you’re allowed to live in an RV full time in Vermont. It has to be on private property, and you must have permission from the owner to do so. You also have the option of staying in an RV campground, park, or resort that offers long-term camping. Many municipalities and counties have additional regulations, so be sure to check into the area where you plan to live.
Rules and Regulations for RVing in Vermont
The rules regarding RV living full time in Vermont are a little simpler than those of other states. Still, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with as many of them as possible.
RV Parking Laws
There are no parking laws specifically regarding RVs in Vermont. RVers must follow all state and/or municipal regulations regarding parking for any motor vehicle.
Trailer Towing Laws
In Vermont, when towing a trailer, you have to have brakes on the wheels. If the trailer weighs less than 3,000 pounds, then the brakes must be able to stop 40% of that weight. If the trailer weighs from 3,001 to 6,000 pounds, the brakes must be able to stop the trailer’s full weight. There have to be brakes on at least one axle. On any trailer that weighs 6,001 pounds or more, there have to be brakes on all wheels of the trailer. The brakes have to apply themselves if the trailer becomes detached from the towing vehicle and remain locked on for at least 15 minutes after that. In Vermont, you may not have anyone in the trailer while it is being towed.
Boondocking Regulations
Boondocking in Vermont is allowed in Green Mountain National Forest, almost all state forests, and in certain private campgrounds. As usual, the rules for boondocking include packing out everything you pack in and leaving no trace. Remember, if you camp on federal land, you’re limited to 14 days within any 28-day period. You also have to move at least 30 miles to your next destination.
RV Insurance Requirements
Vermont requires insurance on all vehicles. That can be either insurance purchased from a licensed agent or what the state calls “self-insurance.” You have the option of insuring yourself for a minimum of $115,000 against liability as long as you can prove that you have that much cash to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, who will then design a form for you to fill out.
Rules for Camping on Public Land
The same rules for all federal land apply to RV campers in Vermont. That means that you can stay in one location for 14 days during any month before needing to move at least 30 miles away to your next destination. When it comes to state parks in Vermont, dispersed camping is not allowed. You must camp at a designated campsite. The only primitive camping allowed is by backpacking in at least 1,000 feet from any road.
Full-Time RVing in Burlington
Burlington is Vermont’s largest city and has quite a few exceptional RV campgrounds from which to choose. Perks of staying in Burlington include taking half a dozen self-guided walking tours, sampling the wares of microbreweries and wineries in the area, and taking boat tours on Lake Champlain. It’s also a great springboard for exploring nature and fishing.
RVing in Burlington FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in Burlington?
No, RV parking in residential areas is generally not allowed except for temporary purposes like conducting business. Small RVs under 22 feet are allowed to park directly in front of the owner’s residence, but larger RVs may not park on the street.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Burlington?
Yes, you may! Vermont state law allows for RVers to live indefinitely on their own property.
Full-Time RVing in Montpelier
Montpelier is the capital of Vermont, so the chief perk of staying near there is that you can explore the history of the city and the state at the museums. There’s a state park among the campgrounds near Montpelier. You can also find RV campgrounds in the city, even near the capitol. The nearby town of Waterbury is famous for its world-class cheddar cheese from Cabot Creamery that has routinely won awards for its quality. A cheese tour from Montpelier to Waterbury is an excellent family-friendly outing. Montpelier is also a great place for hiking and river access.
RVing in Montpelier FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in Montpelier?
Montpelier generally allows RV to park on the street, but it does have restrictions on parking a trailer on any street when it is not attached to a working vehicle. Parking an RV in city parking spaces is restricted to no more than 24 hours. There do not seem to be restrictions on parking on the street in residential areas.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Montpelier?
You are allowed to live in your RV on your property or other private property when permitted by the property owner.
How to Live in an RV Full time
Full-time RV living in any state takes preparation and planning. You’ll need an income or other means to support yourself. Many RVers telecommute. Some work seasonally for companies in the towns or cities where they stay. Others will work for a campground where they secure long-term accommodations. These jobs often pay for the long-term rental at the campground, park, or resort. If you telecommute, you’ll need a place with consistent Wi-Fi or a powerful and reliable mobile hotspot to connect to the internet.
If you have children, they will need to attend school. Many full-time RVers choose to home-school their children. If you plan to live full-time in a particular spot, you can register them in a regular school. In some cases, you may be able to have your children participate in school remotely, but that varies by district. Check with the board of education near where you’re staying in Vermont to see if that’s an option or not.
You’ll also need a way to receive mail and register to vote. Voting usually requires a permanent address. If you establish residency in Vermont and will travel frequently, you can look into absentee voting.
Types of Properties You Can Live on Full Time in an RV
• Private, long-term campground: You can pick a private RV campground in Vermont, many of which provide long-term opportunities. Some might have restrictions on how many seasons you can stay and what seasons they are open. It’s not uncommon for campgrounds to restrict long-term camping to RVs that are 10 years old or newer.
• Private property: You can live in your RV on your own property or someone else’s with the owner’s permission.
RVing in Vermont FAQs
Can you sleep in an RV while traveling through the U.S.?
Yes, in many states, you may sleep during the day in your RV rest stops or even on the side of the road if you’re so tired as to create a driving hazard. In Vermont, you’re allowed to sleep at rest stops to refresh yourself and no longer be a drowsy driver. However, you’re not allowed to stay overnight.
What is the new RV law in Vermont?
The newest law in Vermont that affects RVs went into effect on January 1, 2024. All it is is an increase in the licensing fees.
Is it legal to live in an RV full time in Vermont?
Yes, it is legal to live in an RV full time in Vermont. Certain municipalities might have restrictions in place, however, so be sure to check those out with the relevant authorities before parking the RV.
Can I park my RV on my property in Vermont?
Yes, the law is that you may park your RV on your property in Vermont. You can also park on someone else’s property with that person’s permission.
Can I buy land and live in an RV in Vermont?
Yes, you’re allowed to buy land and then live in your RV on that land.
How long can I stay at an RV Park in Vermont?
The State of Vermont has not enacted any legislation about how long you’re able to stay in an RV park, campground, or resort. The parks, campgrounds, and resorts all have their own policies, though, so check with them for full details.
Vermont lets you park long-term on private property with the owner’s permission, so it’s quite friendly to RVers. There are also many campgrounds that allow long-term residency. So, what do you think? Does living in an RV full time in Vermont sound good? If it does, then don’t forget your fur babies! What if you’re not sure? Well, one of the best ways to see whether or not the RV life is for you is to rent an RV and take a test drive. Have fun!