RV living full time in Texas provides benefits, including a diverse culture, vast job opportunities, friendly communities, and no state income taxes. The state has 89 state parks, multiple sports arenas, and incredible dining opportunities. Our guide examines how to live in an RV full time in Texas, including information about local laws, regulations, and land use restrictions. We’ll explain important details about towing trailers and where to park your RV. Continue reading to get answers to all your questions regarding living full time in an RV in Texas.
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 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 Texas
Full-time RV living is legal in Texas, and you can live on private property if you either have the property owner’s consent or buy your own land. However, you must register your RV in the county and adhere to all local ordinances. If you want to travel around Texas full time in your RV, you’ll find several long-term RV parks and campgrounds with modern amenities. Some state parks also allow you to stay up to 180 days, but others only allow 14 days, so check with the individual park.
Rules and Regulations for RVing in Texas
Don’t decide to live in an RV full-time in Texas until you’re familiar with all state rules and regulations. Our guide explains where to camp and park and if you need to insure your RV. These answers help you plan your new venture and calculate expenses when you begin to live full-time in your RV in Texas.
RV Parking Laws
Texas doesn’t have any state laws prohibiting roadside parking for RVs. However, you should check the laws and ordinances in the city and county where you choose to live and visit.
Trailer Towing Laws
Texas trailer towing laws require the towing vehicle to be under 14 feet tall and not wider than 8 and a half feet. You can use a light-weight truck or car to haul a trailer, provided safety measures are followed.
Boondocking Regulations
Boondocking in Texas is allowed on public lands offering dispersed camping or on private property. Review the regulations for the public land before setting up camp to avoid citations and penalties.
RV Insurance Requirements
In Texas, you must have liability coverage for your RV with a minimum coverage level of $30,000 in bodily injury per person and $60,000 per incident. Your property damage coverage must be at least $25,000.
Rules for Camping on Public Land
Texas has several national forests and state parks that offer RV camping. Under new camping laws, most state parks and recreational areas require you to reserve a camping spot before arriving at the campground. Determine the stay limit for your preferred location, as these can vary widely.
Full-Time RVing in Dallas
Living in Dallas offers a more culturally diverse atmosphere, a milder climate, welcoming communities, and a growing job market. The city offers a mix of city life and many countryside settings. Attractions in Dallas include Klyde Warren Park, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Dallas World Aquarium. If you aren’t ready to buy an RV, you can review many RV rentals in Dallas and give RV living a shot.
RVing in Dallas FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in the city?
You can park your RV on the roadside if it isn’t blocking traffic; however, check for posted signs that prohibit RV parking in certain areas.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Dallas>
Yes, you can live in an RV on your property in Dallas. There aren’t any restrictions for living in an RV in your backyard if you register the RV according to city and county ordinances. You can also live in an RV park lot you’ve purchased or private land zoned for RVs.
Full-Time RVing in Austin
Austin offers a friendly community, great neighborhoods, and top-rated schools. The city has many popular attractions, including SXSW, Austin City Limits, Barton Springs, Zilker Metropolitan Park, and Bullock Texas State History Museum. Before you start full-time RV living in Austin, explore RV rentals and decide if it’s for you.
RVing in Austin FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in the city?
There aren’t any restrictions on parking an RV in Austin except where posted signs prohibit it. You’ll find many attractions in the city, offering designated RV parking and shuttle services to your preferred venue.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Austin?
Yes, you can live in your RV on your property in Austin. However, you must register the RV with the proper authorities. If you don’t want to park the RV in the backyard, you can purchase a lot zoned for RVs and live there.
Full-Time RVing in Houston
Houston is a great city with a lower-than-average cost of living, many job opportunities, and many entertainment venues. Houston attractions include the Houston Opera House, the Children’s Museum Houston, the Lynn Wyatt Square for the Performing Arts, and the Houston Zoo. You can visit in an RV rental in Houston and decide if you are ready for full-time RV living.
RVing in Houston FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in the city?
Yes, you can park your RV in most places in the city; however, look for posted signs that prohibit RV parking. You can park your RV at some local attractions with designated RV parking.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Houston?
Yes, you will find properties zoned for RVs if you want to buy land. You could also live in your RV on your residential property if you are constructing a new home.
Full-Time RVing in San Antonio
San Antonio is a wonderful city if you love history and culture. It offers affordable living, entertainment opportunities, and many dining options. San Antonio attractions include the Alamo, San Antonio River Walk, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, and SeaWorld San Antonio. San Antonio RV rentals are available if you want to explore the city in an RV and see if you want to start living in an RV full-time.
RVing in San Antonio FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in the city?
You must review signs posted in the city to avoid citations for illegal parking. However, most places in the city allow RV parking. Pay attention to parking restrictions around popular attractions.
Can I live in my RV on my property in San Antonio?
After you register your RV, you can park it on your San Antonio property. The city has RV-zoned lots for sale where you can live in an RV full-time.
Full-Time RVing in Arlington
Suburban living is available in Arlington, with welcoming neighborhoods, coffee shops, and convenient access to vital services. Arlington attractions are AT&T Stadium, Six Flags Over Texas, Choctaw Stadium, and Texas Live. RV rentals in Arlington are a great way to test out RV living and explore the city.
RVing in Arlington FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in the city?
Arlington has few restrictions on roadside parking if you aren’t blocking traffic. Look for RV-designated parking near major attractions and subdivisions.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Arlington?
Yes, Arlington offers RV-zoned properties where you can live in an RV full-time.
How to Live in an RV Full Time
It’s important that you understand all the aspects of living in an RV full-time, including basic requirements like setting up mail services or registering to vote. Establish residency in Texas by getting a physical address. If you’re staying at an RV park, your mail could be forwarded to their location temporarily. You can also get a physical address with a suite number through a local UPS store.
You’ll have a physical address if you lease an RV lot or buy your own land, so it’s easy to receive mail. A physical address helps establish in what district you’ll vote. You can also set up health insurance.
Types of Properties You Can Live on Full Time in an RV
● Long-term campgrounds: You can stay in an RV at many long-term campgrounds. Some RV parks and resorts offer longer stays of up to six months or longer.
● Public land: Campgrounds on public lands and national forests are available for limited stays, and many areas allow you to boondock for free. However, most restrict how long you can stay, so you will need to move locations fairly often.
● Your own property: You’ll find many lots zoned specifically for RVs. Follow city ordinances for the area where you set up your RV.
RVing in Texas
Can you sleep in an RV while driving in the US?
You cannot sleep in an RV unless you are in the passenger seat wearing your seatbelt. Laws prohibit sleeping in other areas of an RV since they increase the risk of serious injuries if an accident occurs.
What is the new RV law in Texas?
Texas Penal Code Section 48.05 explains prohibited camping and its penalties. Anyone who camps in a public space without permission will face criminal charges. Campers must get permission from the agency or officer who manages the property before setting up their campsite.
Is it legal to live in an RV full time in Texas?
Yes, there are no laws prohibiting full-time living in an RV in Texas. However, you must adhere to restrictions at state parks, public lands, and private properties owned by other parties.
Can I park my RV on my property in Texas?
You can park your RV in your driveway if you own a home if it doesn’t exceed the edge of your driveway blocking the road. You can also park it on other areas of your property if you register it with the appropriate county authorities as a dwelling.
Can I buy land and live in an RV in Texas?
Yes, you can buy land and live in an RV in Texas. You must register the RV with the appropriate authorities.
How long can you stay at an RV park in Texas?
You can stay at an RV park in Texas according to the restrictions set forth by the park’s owner. Some RV parks offer leases for six months to a year; others may sell lots for permanent residency.
Full-time RV living in Texas provides a cost-effective solution for anyone who wants a permanent home but also wants to travel conveniently. If you aren’t ready to commit to an RV purchase, you can review RV rentals and try out the lifestyle. You can review many Texas destinations to find your favorite locale and decide where you want to live permanently. You’ll find many terrific places throughout the stay offering attractions, dining opportunities, and fun activities within your budget.