South Carolina did not enact sweeping statewide bans on sleeping in personal vehicles in mid‑2025. However, a combination of new and existing local ordinances, court rulings, and state codes now makes it more important than ever for motorists, RVers, and homeless individuals to understand where sleeping in cars, vans, or RVs is still permitted—and where it’s now outlawed.
These updates affect three main areas:
- State law on vehicles
- Local bans in cities and counties
- Judicial rulings that influence enforcement
Let’s break it down.
Statewide Laws: What You Can—and Can’t—Do
Taxis & Commercial Vehicles
According to South Carolina Code Section 58‑23‑1350 (2024), it’s illegal for taxi drivers to allow their vehicles to be used as “sleeping quarters or lounging places” when not in service. That applies only to for‑hire vehicles—not private cars, RVs or trucks.
Rest Stops & State Highways
Unlike North Carolina (which restricts rest‑stop parking to four hours) and other states with explicit statewide bans, South Carolina does not currently have statewide limits on sleeping at rest areas. However, be aware that individual counties or law-enforcement agencies may enforce their own restrictions.
Municipal & County Bans: The New Norm
Even without a statewide daytime or overnight ban for private vehicles, many cities and counties have recently tightened rules.
Charleston
Charleston City Code §19‑238 now prohibits “camping, sleeping, residing, etc., in any camper, van, bus, or other motor vehicle on public streets or in any park”. Violations can incur fines or charges for loitering or violating vehicle ordinances.
Horry County & Beach Areas
Some jurisdictions, like Horry County, have longstanding bans on beach “sleeping” and camping—these explicitly prohibit overnight sleeping on public beaches or parks .
Supreme Court Ruling: New Justifications for Local Enforcement
In June 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that municipalities may prohibit sleeping in public spaces—even when individuals are unhoused and lack alternatives. This ruling empowers local governments in South Carolina to justify regulations targeting vehicle‑dwelling, defining such acts as unlawful “camping” or “lodging.” It’s now commonly used as legal support for enforcing vehicle‑sleeping bans across the state.
Rest‑Stop Sleeping: Safe But Not Always Legal
Despite no statewide prohibition, many local law enforcement agencies strictly enforce “no overnight parking” signs at rest areas, particularly along interstates, citing public safety or traffic flow concerns. Though there’s no uniform rest‑stop statute, dozens of “no overnight parking” zones have appeared in recent months across the Palmetto State—especially near golf courses, bridges, and waterfronts.
Why This Matters
A. Homelessness & Public Health
With homelessness sometimes resulting in people living in their vehicles, municipalities aim to curb “vehicular camping.” However, critics argue these laws push vulnerable individuals into even riskier situations.
B. Travel & Tourism
RVers, road‑trippers, and parent‑driver commuters often remain unaware of these local restrictions—and have found themselves fined or ticketed. It’s no longer enough to check statewide laws; travelers must verify local ordinances before stopping overnight.
Who Enforces These Laws—and How?
- Police or Code Enforcement patrol public parks, beaches, and streets.
- “No Overnight Parking” signs now appear in many municipal and county rest‑area zones.
- Towing & Fines: Violators may face citations, vehicle impoundment, or even loitering charges.
Enforcement varies widely: some areas leave it to judgment—others have zero‑tolerance treaties.
Tips for Complying (and Staying Safe)
| Tip | Advice |
|---|---|
| Check Signs | Always obey posted rules—“No Overnight Parking” means just that. |
| Call Ahead | If you intend to sleep in your vehicle, contact local police or code enforcement—especially in towns. |
| Seek Private Campgrounds/RV Parks | These are safer and legally designated for overnight stays. |
| Know Your Vehicle Type | Taxis and commercial vehicles are under stricter, statewide rules. |
| Get Permission | If you plan to stay on private land, get explicit permission first. |
What May Be Coming Next
- Further local ordinances are likely as cities capitalize on the Supreme Court ruling.
- Regional ordinances around lakes, rivers, or coastal areas may follow Charleston’s lead.
- Statewide consistency is unlikely soon, but pressure from courts and urban planning may encourage a unified policy.
Final Takeaway
South Carolina has no blanket, statewide prohibition for sleeping in private vehicles—but it’s increasingly regulated. Local bans, especially in coastal and urban zones, now exist. Enforcement is common, and thanks to the 2024 Supreme Court decision, municipalities can legally cite “no camping.”
If you need to rest or stay overnight in your vehicle—even on a highway rest area—it’s vital to:
- Check signs and restrictions before parking.
- Call ahead if unsure.
- Opt for private campgrounds or RV parks.
- Understand local laws in the jurisdiction you’re in.