Full-time RV living in Missouri provides access to culturally based attractions, welcoming communities, and natural beauty. Our guide discusses rules, regulations, and laws for living in an RV in Missouri, including towing, parking, and accessibility to public land. We’ll provide all the tips you need to get established in the area and create a wonderful life living full time in an RV in Missouri.
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 long-term decisions and if you are unsure of your local laws.
Can You Live in an RV Full Time in Missouri?
Full-time RV living is legal in Missouri if you own or lease property zoned for an RV. State laws require you to park the RV where it isn’t visible from the road, and you must maintain it and manage trash on the property according to city ordinances to avoid code violations. However, you’ll want to check county and municipality regulations regarding full-time RV living in that particular area.
Rules and Regulations for RVing in Missouri?
Knowing the local rules and regulations in advance helps you plan your transition to living full time in an RV in Missouri. Here, you’ll find details about where to camp and park as well as regulations about towing your RV in the state. We’ll also present answers to common questions relevant to RV living and regional laws.
RV Parking Laws
You cannot park RVs along roadsides or areas that aren’t designated as RV parking. In most areas, you can park an RV on your own property if it doesn’t overhang onto sidewalks or exceed the driveway’s edge. Unlike many states, in Missouri, you may park overnight at a rest area.
Trailer Towing Laws
Trailer towing laws state that you must attach safety chains to your trailer, and there must be a hitch installed on your vehicle used for hauling the trailer. The trailer must be registered with working brakes and taillights. Unlike most states, passengers over the age of 21 may ride in a trailer or camper while it is being towed.
Boondocking Regulations
Boondocking is legal in Missouri in areas where dispersed camping is allowed. It’s free to boondock, but you can only stay up to 14 days in each state park within a 30-day period.
RV Insurance Requirements
You must purchase liability coverage for your RV with a minimum coverage level of $25,000 for bodily injuries and a maximum of $50,000. You must also have at least $25,000 in coverage for property damage. Uninsured motorist coverage is also required.
Rules for Camping on Public Land
Camping on public lands in Missouri outside of designated campgrounds, state parks, and the Mark Twain National Forest is not allowed. You must follow all regulations and rules provided by the Bureau of Land Management or the agency overseeing the property.
Full-time RVing in Kansas City
Kansas City has an impressive cultural heritage, culinary wonders, friendly neighborhoods, and a fast-paced sports culture. Popular attractions in Kansas City include the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium, and the Arabia Steamboat Museum. If you want to take the city for a test drive, you can review RV rentals in Kansas City and plan a visit.
RVing in Kansas City FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in the city?
You cannot park an RV on any public street, so you must find designated RV parking. State parks and RV resorts offer parking near local attractions.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Kansas City?
Yes, you can purchase land zoned for an RV in Kansas City and live in your RV. However, the RV cannot be visible from a public road.
Full-Time RVing in St. Louis
The cost of living in St. Louis is 4% lower than in other cities in the state, and the unemployment rate is lower than average. You’ll find many Fortune 500 companies with employment opportunities. The city offers terrific attractions, including the Gateway Arch, City Museum, Saint Louis Zoo, and the Missouri Botanical Garden. If you haven’t committed to buying an RV, you can test out RV rentals in St. Louis and see if living in an RV full time is for you.
RVing in St. Louis FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in the city?
RVs cannot be parked on any public street in St. Louis with posted signs prohibiting parking. RV parking is prohibited throughout the city between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.; if you violate the ordinance, your RV will be towed.
Can I live in my RV on my property in St. Louis?
You can live in an RV on a property zoned for RVs. However, you must park the RV where it is not visible from public roads.
Full-Time RVing in Springfield
Springfield offers a growing job market, top-rated schools and hospitals, and entertainment opportunities. RV rentals in Springfield let you try out RV life, and you can start by checking out its many restaurants, including Sleepy Opossum Cafe, Van Gogh’s Eeterie, Billy Gail’s, and the Farm House Cafe. Springfield attractions include Dickerson Park Zoo, Discovery Center of Springfield, and Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium.
RVing in Springfield FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in the city?
You cannot park an RV on streets or cul-de-sacs unless parked parallel to the roadway edge in the same direction as oncoming traffic.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Springfield?
Springfield only allows temporary occupancy of RVs, so you cannot live in an RV full-time in Springfield.
Full-Time RVing in Branson
Full-time RVing in Branson offers access to top schools in the Tri-Lakes region, including New Life Academy, and many locals enjoy the Branson Hills Golf Course and Silver Dollar City. Other popular entertainment options include the Aquarium at the Boardwalk, Fritz Adventure, and the Titanium Museum. Reserve an RV rental in Branson if you aren’t ready to commit to a purchase and explore the city.
RVing in Branson FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in the city?
You can park an RV in designated parking spaces or on the roadside without blocking traffic. Overnight parking is permitted at state rest areas where signs are posted.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Branson?
Branson allows residents to live in RVs on any property zoned for recreational vehicles. However, you must manage trash removal and maintain the RV per city ordinances.
Full-Time RVing in Jefferson City
Jefferson City is a great place for recreation, including hiking, boating, and fishing. The town offers natural beauty, a sense of community, affordable living, and a rich history. Look through Jefferson City RV rentals if you want to visit the city and see if RV living is right for you. Jefferson City has many attractions, including the Missouri State Capitol, Shelter Gardens, and Rock Bridge Memorial State Park.
RVing in Jefferson City FAQs
Can you park in an RV anywhere in the city?
Parking RVs on streets in Jefferson City is not permitted. You cannot park your RV in the city overnight.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Jefferson City?
RV parks rent and sell lots zoned for RVs in Jefferson City. However, you can find other private lots in Jefferson City for RVs.
How to Live in an RV Full Time
Before you take the next step to living in an RV full time, consider important factors, including how you’ll receive mail, register to vote, set up utilities or internet services, and enrolling in a healthcare plan. For example, you need a physical address to establish permanent residency in Missouri and manage these tasks.
Receiving mail is easy if you own the property, and the post office can place your mail in a mailbox. However, you can use a mail forwarding service if you travel to different state parks or resorts often. You could get a post office box instead or get a physical address and suite number from a local UPS store.
Types of Properties You Can Live on Full Time in an RV
● Long-term campgrounds: You can live full time in an RV at campgrounds offering long-term stays. There is a 14-day limit for staying on public land, including campgrounds at state parks.
● Private property: You can stay in an RV on private property with the owner’s permission.
● Your own property: You can buy land zoned for an RV and live in your RV on your property.
RVing in Missouri FAQs
Can you sleep in an RV while driving through the US?
There are some options for sleeping at rest areas and in large parking lots while driving your RV through the U.S. Sleeping in the RV’s bedroom while the RV is moving, however, is illegal since it increases the risk of serious injuries in an accident. However, if you sit in the passenger seat wearing a seatbelt, you can sleep while the RV is mobile.
What is the new RV law in Missouri?
Missouri Code, Section 301.136, states that owners of RVs over 25 years old can cancel their current registration and file an application for a historic license plate. You can return the license plate to the director of revenue and submit your application.
Is it legal to live in an RV full time in Missouri?
Yes, it is legal to live in an RV full time in Missouri. However, you must be on land zoned specifically for RVs. It is legal for RV campgrounds to offer full-time camping, but this varies by campground.
Can I park my RV on my property in Missouri?
Yes, you can park your RV on your property. If you don’t live in the RV, you can park the RV in your backyard.
Can I buy land and live in an RV in Missouri?
You can purchase land and live in your RV on land zoned for RVs. You must park the RV where it is not visible from public roads.
How long can you stay at an RV park in Missouri?
RV parks throughout Missouri offer lots for rent or sale. You can lease a lot at an RV park for a year. Some RV parks offer lease renewals with a history of on-time rental payments.
Full-time RV living in Missouri gives you many perks, including a lower cost of living, access to attractions, and friendly communities. If you want to try out RV living, you can review Missouri RV rentals and explore the state. RV living full time in Missouri could provide a more affordable way to live, giving you more money to take on new opportunities like starting your own business or traveling the US. If you take a chance on a fresh start, you’ll find beautiful places to live and make lasting memories.
