Sleeping in your car is a common practice for travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and people experiencing housing instability. In Colorado, the legality of car sleeping is nuanced and depends heavily on local regulations, property rules, and specific circumstances. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you need to know about sleeping in your car in the Centennial State.
Statewide Laws and General Principles
- There is no statewide law in Colorado that outright bans sleeping in your car. At the state level, you are generally allowed to sleep in your vehicle, provided you are not violating other laws, such as trespassing or driving under the influence.
- Federal law does not specifically prohibit sleeping in your car, but local and municipal ordinances often dictate where and when you can do so.
Local Ordinances and Parking Restrictions
- Municipal Control: The most important factor is local regulation. Cities and counties in Colorado have the authority to set their own rules about overnight parking and sleeping in vehicles. For example, Denver does not have a blanket ban on sleeping in your car, but local ordinances regulate where you can park and for how long.
- Signage: Always look for posted signs. Many public lots, shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods have signs that prohibit overnight parking or camping. Ignoring these can result in fines or being asked to move.
- Private Property: Sleeping in your car on private property (like store parking lots or driveways) is only legal with the property owner’s permission. Otherwise, you risk a trespassing charge.
Rest Areas, Truck Stops, and Public Lands
- Rest Areas: Colorado is one of the few states that prohibits overnight parking at highway rest areas. You cannot legally sleep overnight at these locations, though short naps during the day are generally tolerated.
- Truck Stops and Big Box Stores: Many truck stops and some Walmart stores allow overnight parking, but policies vary by location. Always call ahead or check with management before settling in for the night.
- National Forests and BLM Land: Dispersed camping, including sleeping in your car, is generally allowed on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and many National Forest lands unless specifically prohibited by signage. However, most trailheads and visitor centers do not allow overnight parking unless you are in a designated campground.
Safe Parking Programs
- Safe Parking Initiatives: Colorado has recognized the need for safe, legal places for people experiencing homelessness to sleep in their vehicles. Programs like the Colorado Safe Parking Initiative (CSPI) have provided designated lots-often at churches or nonprofits-where overnight parking is permitted and basic facilities are available. While CSPI’s central operations have ended, many partner lots continue to operate in the Denver metro area.
- Benefits: These lots offer a safer alternative to street parking, with access to restrooms and sometimes other support services.
DUI and Safety Considerations
- DUI Risk: Sleeping in your car while intoxicated can still result in a DUI charge in Colorado. The law considers whether you are in “actual physical control” of the vehicle, which can include being in the driver’s seat with the keys accessible-even if the car is not running. To reduce risk:
- Remove keys from the ignition and place them out of reach.
- Sit in the back seat rather than the driver’s seat.
- Make it clear you have no intention of driving until sober.
- Safety: Car break-ins can occur, especially in urban areas like Denver. Choose well-lit, monitored lots when possible, and keep valuables out of sight.
Best Practices for Legal and Safe Car Sleeping
- Research local ordinances before parking overnight.
- Use apps or websites (like iOverlander or Freecampsites.net) to find legal spots.
- Seek out safe parking lots if you are experiencing housing insecurity.
- Never park where “No Overnight Parking” or “No Camping” signs are posted.
- If in doubt, ask local law enforcement or property owners for permission.
Where You Can Sleep in Your Car in Colorado
| Location Type | Overnight Sleeping Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Public streets (varies by city) | Sometimes (check local rules) | Watch for signage; risk of break-ins in some areas |
| Rest areas | No | Overnight parking prohibited statewide |
| Truck stops/Walmart | Sometimes (store policy varies) | Call ahead to confirm |
| National Forest/BLM land | Yes (unless posted otherwise) | Dispersed camping generally allowed |
| Private property | Only with permission | Otherwise, risk trespassing charges |
| Safe parking lots | Yes (in participating lots) | Especially for people experiencing homelessness |
Sleeping in your car in Colorado is generally legal, but highly dependent on local ordinances, posted signage, and property rules. Rest areas are off-limits for overnight stays, but options exist on public lands, at some businesses, and through safe parking initiatives. Always check local regulations, prioritize your safety, and take steps to avoid DUI risks if you have consumed alcohol. By planning ahead, you can rest easy-and legally-on your Colorado journey.
Sources:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/urbancarliving/comments/e75un9/anyone_have_experience_living_in_their_car_in/
- https://94kix.com/legal-sleep-car-colorado/
- https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/tips-for-sleeping-in-car.html
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Denver/comments/17urxi8/where_to_sleep_in_car_while_visiting_your_city/
- https://www.bartoninstitute.org/safe-parking
