If you’re traveling or temporarily staying in Utah, you might be wondering whether it’s legal to sleep in your car. Many people use their cars for rest when they’re on the road, but the laws around car sleeping can vary from state to state. Here’s everything you need to know about the legality of sleeping in your car in Utah.
Is Sleeping in Your Car Legal in Utah?
Yes, it’s generally legal to sleep in your car in Utah, but there are some important restrictions and guidelines you should keep in mind. Utah does not have a state-wide law specifically banning car sleeping, but local laws in cities and towns may have rules that affect where and when you can park overnight.
Where Can You Sleep in Your Car in Utah?
Public Rest Areas: Utah has many rest areas along its highways where travelers can stop and rest. In most cases, it’s legal to sleep in your car at these locations. However, some rest areas have time limits (usually up to 8 hours), so make sure to check for signs that might indicate any restrictions.
Campgrounds: State parks, national parks, and other campgrounds in Utah often allow overnight stays in vehicles, but you usually have to pay a camping fee. This is a safe and legal option for car sleeping if you’re looking for a place to park overnight.
Walmart Parking Lots: In many cities, Walmart stores are known to allow overnight parking, but check with the store manager before sleeping in your car. Policies vary by location, and not all Walmart locations allow overnight parking.
Street Parking: Sleeping in your car on the street may be restricted in some areas of Utah, especially in residential neighborhoods or downtown districts. Be sure to check the local parking regulations, as some areas may prohibit overnight parking for non-residents or commercial vehicles.
What About Sleeping in Your Car in Urban Areas?
In urban areas like Salt Lake City, car sleeping is more likely to be regulated by local ordinances. Many cities have anti-homelessness laws that prevent people from sleeping in their cars on public streets. Salt Lake City, for example, has laws that prohibit overnight parking on certain streets. If you’re in a city, always check the local laws or look for signs indicating parking rules.
Can You Be Fined for Sleeping in Your Car?
If you park in a restricted area or fail to follow local parking rules, you could face fines or have your car towed. To avoid this:
Follow posted signs for parking restrictions.
Check city ordinances if you’re in a populated area.
Always consider private property—sleeping in a car on someone else’s property without permission could also result in fines or trespassing charges.
Safety Tips for Sleeping in Your Car in Utah
While it’s legal to sleep in your car in many areas of Utah, it’s important to stay safe:
Park in well-lit areas if you’re sleeping in your car overnight.
Avoid parking near empty or isolated areas.
Lock your car doors and keep valuables out of sight.
Stay aware of your surroundings and always be prepared to move if needed.
Consider using sleeping bags or blankets for warmth, especially in colder areas like the mountains.
Be Informed and Respect Local Laws
In Utah, it is legal to sleep in your car in many places, especially rest areas, campgrounds, and certain parking lots. However, local laws vary, and you should always check for any restrictions before settling down for the night. Whether you’re traveling through or temporarily staying in the state, being aware of your surroundings and understanding the rules will help you avoid fines and stay safe while sleeping in your car.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.nslcity.org/549/Parking-Regulations
[2] https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title41/Chapter6a/C41-6a-P14_1800010118000101.pdf
[3] https://midvale.municipal.codes/Code/10.16.150
[4] https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title41/Chapter6a/41-6a-S1401.html
[5] https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/loganut/latest/logan_ut/0-0-0-5714
