Boat owners love to think about long days out on the water, exciting fishing excursions, and jumping off the back for a cool swim. However, parking the boat is sometimes an afterthought–but it shouldn’t be.
One thing to be aware of right away is that parking a boat on the street can sometimes lead to damage. And in a worst-case scenario, parking in an illegal zone could mean waking up in the morning to find that your boat isn’t where you left it.
Key Takeaways
- Before leaving your boat parked on the street, read up on boat parking regulations, homeowners association rules, and city laws.
- There is a difference between temporary on-street parking vs. overnight street parking
- The legality of street parking for boats will vary depending on the size of your boat and trailer and the type of road you live on (court, side street, highway, etc.)
- Some areas may allow driveway and side street parking as long as the boat is properly covered.
Understanding Street Parking for Boats
If you don’t have a private driveway or a backyard that could fit your boat, chances are, street parking has come to mind.
Most communities prohibit boats or trailers from being parked on public or private property overnight, but some cities and neighborhoods may permit it for a limited time.
Temporary On-Street Parking
Oversized recreational vehicles, including boats, can be temporarily parked on the street for loading and unloading purposes.
This privilege, however, comes with the responsibility of being mindful of time limits. Whenever possible, you’ll want to avoid parking on the street for extended periods. Time limits for temporary on-street parking of boats typically range from 48 to 72 hours, allowing many weekend boat owners to enjoy their boats without needing to find alternate storage options.
If you are having your garage or driveway refinished, your community may give you a permit to park the boat on the street for up to 7 days.
Overnight Street Parking Restrictions
When communities allow boat trailers to be parked on the street, it can be beneficial for overnight parking on vacations, preparation for planned vacations, and unloading equipment.
You must be aware of the overnight street parking restrictions in your area to prevent fines and preserve good relations with your neighbors.
Driveway Parking for Boats
Another option for boat parking (and avoiding the street) is utilizing your driveway. Many communities actively encourage driveway parking for boats to keep boats off the roads.
To avoid fines from homeowners associations or the government, do thorough research on the rules in your area.
Driveway Parking Time Limits
Time limits for driveway parking for boats can vary depending on your location. There may be no specific time limit in some areas, while in others, there may be generous limits ranging from 48 to 72 hours or up to 14 days in a calendar year.
These time limits ensure safety and convenience for boat owners and neighbors.
Curb Appeal and Neighborhood Impact
Parking a boat in your driveway can have an impact on your neighborhood’s curb appeal and overall aesthetic value
To ensure you adhere to any regulations regarding boat parking in driveways, check with your homeowner’s association or local regulations. If the rules aren’t clear, speak to someone on the homeowners association board.
Boat Trailer Regulations
Boat trailer regulations are an essential aspect of boat parking to consider. These regulations are very similar to boat parking.
When parking a trailer not loaded with a boat, regulations tend to be more lenient. If your boat is in the water for the season, and you just need a place to park the trailer (without the boat propped atop), you may be allowed to park it in the street or in your cul-de-sac.
Street parking for boat trailers is generally available within a restricted timeframe, and the regulations may vary depending on the location. Many communities allow private driveway parking for boat trailers, so be sure to check local rules and homeowners association guidelines.
Navigating Local Rules and Regulations
To successfully navigate local rules and regulations for boat parking, it’s crucial to understand both homeowners association guidelines and city or municipal laws. Warning: Rules for parking boats on streets and driveways may change from one country to the next.
Homeowners Associations
Homeowners associations are organizations that manage and maintain residential properties.
These associations often have rules in place to ensure safe and efficient boat parking, such as designating specific areas or setting time limits.
Homeowners associations mostly worry about the visual aesthetics of the community and safety when creating their rules and regulations. These associations may rule against street boat parking, purely because it detracts from the neighborhood curb appeal.
City and Municipal Laws
City and municipal laws are set by local governments to provide guidance and structure for activities within their jurisdiction, including boat parking regulations.
These laws can include street parking restrictions and driveway parking allowances for boats, which can vary depending on the community.
Safety Concerns and Visibility Issues
Parking boats on the street can cause safety concerns and visibility issues, such as obstructed views and challenges navigating narrow streets. These issues can pose risks for pedestrians, children, and other drivers.
- Blocking of lanes is not legal
- Traffic congestion can occur by parking boats on the street
- Even if temporarily parking the boat on the street ensure you park boas as close to the curb as possible, maximizing room for other drivers
Alternative Boat Parking Options
Aside from street and driveway parking, there are alternative boat parking options available, including commercial storage facilities, common areas, and designated boat parking zones.
Commercial Storage Facilities
Commercial storage facilities offer secure, off-street parking spaces for boats, with costs varying from state to state.
These facilities provide designated outdoor storage areas and enforce policies that protect watercraft while in storage. For example, some boat storage facilities impose restrictions on engine use inside the storage space and have even instated requirements for insurance coverage on the stored boats–all of which can be beneficial for your boat’s safety and security.
Common Areas and Designated Boat Parking Zones
Common areas and designated boat parking zones are assigned by local governments and may be public or private (and therefore subject to different specific rules and regulations).
Additionally, some areas may require a permit or fee for boat parking.
Peer-to-Peer Storage
If you don’t have enough space in your garage and leaving the boat on the street is not really a long-term solution, Neighbor has indoor and outdoor storage options for your boat to help preserve them in the best way possible.
Peer-to-peer storage can be beneficial when you have run out of storage options that are close to home and safe for your boat. In addition, peer-to-peer storage can appeal to a variety of budgets.
Summary
Boat parking on the street is fine for a few minutes while you load things up, wash down your boat, or fix a quick problem. Just be warned: parking your boat on the street overnight or for an extended period is often a bad idea, between the fines, angry neighbors, and potential damage to the boat.
Use Neighbor to help you find the perfect off-street parking option. On our platform, you’ll find driveways and indoor storage units for rent that will keep your boat safe and protect your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Park a Boat on the Street in Maryland?
It is generally not allowed to park a boat on the street in Maryland residential zones for more than 24 hours.
Can You Park a Boat on the Street in California?
In Oceanside, California, for example, you are allowed to park a boat trailer on city streets for up to 72 hours, with rules in place to prevent extended parking. Rules and regulations will vary among different California neighborhoods.
Can You Park a Boat Trailer on Massachusetts Street?
In some areas of Massachusetts, you can park your boat trailer on the street for a few hours—as long as it is registered. However, in most areas, this is not permitted.
Can You Park a Boat on the Street in Hawaii?
Hawaii has rules and regulations about street parking for boats that change from one area to another. Do not park your boat on the street in Hawaii until you check your local rules and regulations.
