Living in an RV full time in New Jersey is an excellent way to explore the Garden State with its rolling hills, forests, rivers, and excellent Atlantic coastline. This guide will help you understand the ins and outs of living in an RV in New Jersey, including laws, tips, and FAQs.
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 New Jersey?
It is acceptable to live in an RV in New Jersey on privately owned property. However, you must apply for and obtain a permit from local authorities. Additionally, the RV must be maintained and in good condition so as not to present a health or safety hazard to occupants or others.
If you have decided you want to live in an RV full time in New Jersey, be aware of the weather conditions. Living near the ocean can be hazardous during hurricane season with high winds and potential flooding. You will want to seek higher ground if flooding is predicted. Winters, in general, can be very cold, and you’ll need to anticipate a fair amount of snowfall. Choose a location that is accessible by car or truck so that you can stock up on supplies and fuel for auxiliary heat and electricity.
Rules and Regulations for RVing in New Jersey
If you are considering living in your RV full time in New Jersey, you will need to familiarize yourself with the state’s rules and regulations. Here is some of what you need to know. Always check with local authorities for additional information.
RV Parking Laws
An RV can be parked off-street in many areas of New Jersey. In most New Jersey cities, you are permitted to park your RV in a private driveway. In some municipalities, such as Tenafly, you are allowed to park an RV that does not exceed 31 feet in length and 9.5 feet in width in a rear yard where it is screened from public view. It is permissible to park an RV at state and county fairgrounds when not otherwise in use. However, you may need to obtain permission.
Trailer Towing Laws
Every trailer must have brakes that can be automatically applied upon breakaway from the towing vehicle. All trailers need to be connected to the towing vehicle by at least one chain or cable, in addition to a hitch bar. The trailer must be equipped with rear tail lights, turn signals, and reflectors on both sides.
Boondocking Regulations
Boondocking is a term for camping in non-designated areas. This is popular for those who are living in an RV full time. Boondocking in New Jersey isn’t as easy as in states that have federal recreation lands. In general, boondocking is discouraged in the state, though some rest areas may allow you to park your RV overnight. Fairgrounds are another option. Most beaches in NJ do not allow you to park an RV overnight, though Sandy Hook National Seashore does have campgrounds with access to the beach. Abbot Sawmill, The Pleasant Valley Lavender Farm, and the Belleplain State Forest are other sites that allow dispersed camping.
RV Insurance Requirements
While traveling in an RV in New Jersey, you are required to carry a minimum amount of insurance coverage. This includes:
• $15,000 in bodily injury per person
• $30,000 in total bodily injury per accident
• $5,000 in property damage per accident
Additionally, you will need a separate policy to insure a travel trailer against physical damage. If you are living in your RV, it’s best to have a policy to cover your personal property, similar to homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.
Rules for Camping on Public Land
New Jersey doesn’t have federal recreation lands governed by the Bureau of Land Management. However, the state does have Department of Environmental Protection rules in place for camping at state parks. For instance, no more than two vehicles (including trailers) may be parked at the campsite, the primary occupant must be 18 years of age or older, and alcohol is prohibited.
Full-Time RVing in Trenton
Trenton is located on the scenic Delaware River and about an hour from the Jersey Shore. It’s a quick train ride into Philadelphia or New York City. If you have decided that you are going to live full time in an RV in Trenton, you will need to either park the RV on private property or find a long-term stay RV campground in the surrounding areas. There are such campgrounds or resorts with hookups and recreational amenities.
RVing in Trenton FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in Trenton?
The simple answer is no. The RV must be parked in a driveway, a properly sized yard, or a designated campground.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Trenton?
Living in an RV is allowed on private property as long as you have obtained a permit from the city.
Full-Time RVing in Atlantic City
Atlantic City is a great place to settle in an RV for a while. It is on the beautiful New Jersey coast with miles of sandy beaches and a super fun boardwalk. You won’t be short on nightlife and delicious food, either. Atlantic City is surrounded by many RV parks. Most of these are seasonal, but some allow long-term stays.
RVing in Atlantic City FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in Atlantic City?
An RV can be parked on private property, in an adequately sized parking lot, or in a garage in the City of Atlantic City. The city code states that a parked RV may not be used for sleeping purposes, changing clothes, or eating unless it is on private property or in a designated campground.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Atlantic City?
Permits are required for living in an RV on private property in New Jersey. Additionally, all RVs must be well-maintained and not create health or safety hazards.
How to Live in an RV Full Time
Many people have taken to living the nomadic lifestyle in an RV full time due to the rising cost of housing and the desire to explore. This is awesome when you can work remotely or are retired. Yet when transitioning from a firm foundation to a house on wheels, you need to do some planning to make it run smoothly.
For instance, you will need a permanent address for things like voting in general elections, maintaining insurance, and receiving paper mail. Using a family member’s address can solve this, and signing up for paperless billing is helpful. Internet access is another thing you’ll need to consider. Choose destinations where you can easily access Wi-Fi and mobile hotspots. before you hit the road, make a detailed budget that includes expenses such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, campsite fees, and groceries.
Types of Properties You Can Live on Full Time in an RV
• Private property: In most municipalities in New Jersey, you can park your RV on your private property and live in it as long as it is not a safety hazard to you or anyone else. Do check with local governments regarding rules and permits.
• Mobile home parks: Some mobile home parks in the state have spaces that are designated for RVs that allow for full-time living.
• Longer-stay campgrounds: Due to the seasonal weather in New Jersey, many campgrounds are closed from November through March. A few stay open all year, but mostly you will find that you can rent a long-term campsite for an entire season and then move south for the winter.
RVing in New Jersey FAQs
Can you sleep in an RV while touring the US?
If you are on the road and need to catch some ZZZs before reaching your destination, some rest stops, service plazas, and retail centers in New Jersey allow for taking a break and sleeping for a short time. A passenger can sleep in a seat with a safety belt while the driver is operating the vehicle. It is not safe to sleep in a bunk when the RV is moving.
What is the New RV law in New Jersey?
New Jersey requires that an RV or motorhome be registered as a recreational passenger vehicle. You must also have the vehicle insured and get it inspected within 14 days of registration.
Is it legal to live in an RV full time in New Jersey?
In most municipalities, full-time RV living is allowed on private property as long as the individual has obtained a permit from their local government. Check with the governing agency for regulations and permit applications.
Can I park my RV on my property in New Jersey?
Yes, you can park your RV on your property in New Jersey. It can be parked in a driveway or in a rear or side yard that has adequate space. There are limitations on the size of the RV. It is best to check with the local authorities as to the regulations because each town has different rules.
Can I buy land and live in an RV in New Jersey?
In most areas, you can live in your RV on your private property in New Jersey as long as you have a permit from the municipality where you plan to settle. You can also purchase a plot of land in a designated RV park that offers small plots for sale. Be aware that some of these parks are open only from spring through fall.
How long can you stay at an RV park in New Jersey?
New Jersey has four seasons. Summers are warm and humid while winters are cold and wet. The latter can pose a challenge for RV parks with the potential for water supply lines freezing. Most parks turn off utilities and close down from November through March. The norm for a long-term stay seems to be 180 days. A handful of RV parks offer year-round RV camping.
If you are an adventurer, RV living full time in New Jersey may be your calling. New Jersey has much to offer with its proximity to large cities, beautiful coastline, and scenic rolling hills. If you are interested in the RV lifestyle, you should consider renting an RV in New Jersey to get a feel for this style of living. Try RV camping in the state to figure out where you might like to put down roots. Before committing to full-time RV living in New Jersey, familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of the city you are considering.