RV Parking Rules in Seattle, Washington — 2025 Guide
Updated 2025 · Based on current city ordinances
Seattle's 72-Hour Rule and RPZ Complexity
Seattle enforces a 72-hour street parking limit under Seattle Municipal Code 11.72.440. However, many Seattle residential neighborhoods are in Restricted Parking Zones (RPZ) where vehicles over 22 feet require resident permits for overnight parking. RPZ permits are issued to residents of the zone for a modest annual fee and must be displayed on the vehicle. Non-permitted oversized vehicles in RPZ zones can be cited and towed after the overnight hours.
Seattle's Department of Transportation (SDOT) at (206) 684-7623 handles parking complaints. The RPZ program covers a substantial portion of Seattle's denser residential neighborhoods — check the SDOT RPZ map at seattle.gov/transportation to determine if your street is in an RPZ zone before assuming standard 72-hour rules apply.
How to Get an RPZ Permit
If your street is in an RPZ zone: check the zone number posted on street signs, visit seattle.gov/transportation/parking/rpz to apply online, provide proof of residency at the zone address, pay the annual fee (typically $50–75/year), display the permit when parking in the zone overnight. The permit specifically exempts your qualifying vehicle from the overnight restrictions during the permit period.
Driveway Storage
Seattle permits driveway RV storage under standard conditions. Seattle's dense residential character means many properties have limited driveway space — a significant practical constraint for large Class A motorhomes. The vehicle must fit entirely on the improved surface and not block the sidewalk.
Eastside Cities Are Different
If you live in Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, or other Eastside cities, you are not in Seattle and different rules apply. The Eastside cities have their own codes. Most use 72-hour limits similar to Seattle's non-RPZ streets, but many Eastside communities have significant HOA penetration with additional restrictions beyond city code.