Have you ever wished you could live in an RV full time in Kansas? You might soon be able to make this dream a reality. It’s definitely possible to live in an RV full time, and this guide will answer all the questions you might have about this idea.
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 Kansas?
In Kansas, you are allowed to make an RV your permanent home. Many municipalities have their own rules about RV living, but in general, you can live in an RV full time on certain types of private property. That property could belong to you, someone you know, or a business that runs a campground.
Rules and Regulations for RVing in Kansas
Before you start preparing an RV for full-time living, you’ll need to make yourself aware of the laws regarding RVs. By doing some research ahead of time, you can enhance your safety and avoid legal issues.
RV Parking Laws
Each municipality has the authority to come up with its own parking laws, so regulations vary from place to place. For example, in Olathe, only one RV can be parked in a driveway if there are no alternatives, such as a garage, side yard, or rear yard. Similarly, Overland Park asks that RVs be parked in side or rear yards, not in driveways. In Kansas City, you’re not allowed to park an RV on a street.
Trailer Towing Laws
As long as you have a safety hitch or chain, you can tow a trailer in Kansas. This law ensures that your vehicle and whatever you’re hauling can maintain a secure connection at all times. You’ll need to register your trailer if its weight plus the weight of its load exceeds 2,000 pounds.
Boondocking Regulations
In most places in Kansas, boondocking, also known as dispersed camping, is not allowed. Instead, you’ll have to stay at a campground or make arrangements for camping on private property. While you can boondock at Cimarron National Grassland, it’s only permitted on certain trails where motorized vehicles aren’t allowed.
RV Insurance Requirements
To operate an RV in Kansas, you’ll have to obtain auto insurance. Proof of insurance may be required when you’re registering or renewing your registration or interacting with a law enforcement officer due to a concern with your vehicle. At a minimum, sign up for bodily injury liability, property damage liability, personal injury protection, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Comprehensive and collision insurance are extra. Even though they come with additional costs, they do offer benefits. They could protect you in the case of an unexpected incident, which could be expensive to resolve. Additionally, you may be eligible for enhanced coverage as a full-time RV resident. Speak with your insurance company about the available options.
Rules for Camping on Public Land
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks offers information about more than two dozen state parks, some of which allow RV camping. Follow the regulations posted on each park’s website, making sure you understand check-in and checkout procedures and any fees that you’ll be charged. At RVshare, we maintain another helpful resource that can point you to campgrounds in Kansas state parks that might work out.
Full-Time RVing in Wichita
It can make a lot of sense to live in an RV in Wichita. Wichita is home to great attractions, including the Sedgwick County Zoo and Kansas Aviation Museum, as well as a variety of locally owned shops and restaurants. It’s an affordable city that’s easy to navigate.
RVing in Wichita FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in Wichita?
RV parking is only allowed on a short-term basis on many Wichita streets. If you have permission from a property owner, you’ll be allowed to park in front of a residence for up to two weeks. Longer-term use of an RV needs to be at an RV park or at a private residence, off the street.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Wichita?
You can live in an RV on your property for up to 30 days. Any time frame longer than that requires parking at an RV campground.
Full-Time RVing in Overland Park
There are many benefits of full-time RVing in Overland Park. Overland Park is a community with numerous parks, plenty of space, and a charming downtown, and it’s about a 20-minute drive to the much larger city of Kansas City, home to nightlife, professional sports teams, and culinary delights. In an RV, it’s typically much easier to handle traffic, navigation, and parking in Overland Park than in Kansas City.
RVing in Overland Park FAQs
Can you park an RV anywhere in Overland Park?
Any RV in Overland Park needs to be parked in a location that’s screened from view from the street. For example, a fence or structure could block the RV from public view, and in some instances, mature landscaping may be sufficient. There are some exceptions, such as if you’re visiting someone in Overland Park for a short amount of time. In this case, you may be able to park your RV in their driveway as long as you don’t block the sidewalk.
Can I live in my RV on my property in Overland Park?
No, full-time RV living in Overland Park has to be at a designated campground.
How to Live in an RV Full Time
If you plan on living in an RV full time in Kansas, prepare for a variety of conditions. When the temperatures drop in the winter, freeze protection becomes paramount. An RV skirt, heat tape, a heated hose, and a reliable heating source can all make a difference in how you fare during the coldest months. Additionally, think about the logistics regarding mail and voting, for example.
You can establish residence and register to vote in Kansas by visiting the DMV with the proper paperwork. Consider renting a post office box, forwarding your mail to a friend or family member, or signing up for a mail forwarding service. In terms of package delivery, use an Amazon locker, a campground office, or the General Delivery service at a local post office. Also remember that you may need to access healthcare while living in an RV. Finding local doctors, dentists, and other healthcare professionals can be important so you know who to call in case of emergency and can keep up with your checkups.
Types of Properties You Can Live on Full Time in an RV
• Long-term campgrounds: If you’re ready to put down roots in an RV, you could book a spot in one of the long-term campgrounds in Kansas. Many campgrounds offer a variety of amenities in addition to discounted long-term rates.
• Your own property: As long as you follow your local rules regarding RV parking, you may be able to live full time in an RV on a property that you own.
• Property of a friend or family member: Maybe a friend or family member has property where you can park your RV. Just remember to be respectful and tread lightly whenever possible.
RVing in Kansas FAQs
Can you sleep in an RV while driving through the US?
At some rest stops in Kansas, you may be able to park your RV and get some sleep during the night. Also, there are numerous campgrounds scattered around the state. Planning out your trip ahead of time can help you figure out the best place to stay. If you’d like to sleep while someone else drives your RV, that’s fine, too. Note that anyone riding in the front row needs to wear a seat belt at all times and children under 14 need to be buckled in even when riding in the back of an RV.
What is the new RV law in Kansas?
No new state legislature has been passed regarding RVing in Kansas, though individual municipalities may have enacted new laws in recent years.
Is it legal to live in an RV full time in Kansas?
Yes, people can legally live in RVs full time in Kansas as long as they park their vehicles on private property and adhere to local regulations.
Can I park my RV on my property in Kansas?
Yes, you can park your RV on private property and certain campgrounds in Kansas. In many communities, you’ll be required to park your RV away from the road in a side yard or backyard.
Can I buy land and live in an RV in Kansas?
Yes, as long as local regulations allow RVs to be parked on your property, feel free to live in your RV full time.
How long can you stay at an RV park in Kansas?
The length of stay depends on each RV park’s policies. Some places are open year-round and offer long-term rates while others may have limitations such as a few weeks or a few months.
With the right planning, you could soon experience RV living full time. It gives you a unique way to enjoy each day, and it may help you cut costs and gain more freedom. In many areas of Kansas, you’ll be able to live in an RV full time as long as you park on private property, which could include a campground. Before embarking on this journey, consider renting an RV in Kansas to test things out for a short period of time. This way, you’ll figure everything out before committing to living in an RV full time. Also do some research on maintenance so that you can keep your RV in great shape. When you’re more prepared, you’ll be able to really appreciate everything that RVs have to offer.
