Car sleeping laws in Idaho have changed recently due to new legislation, making it important for travelers, road-trippers, and those experiencing homelessness to understand where and when it is legal to sleep in a vehicle.
Recent Changes: Public Camping Ban in Larger Cities
In April 2025, Idaho Governor Brad Little signed Senate Bill 1141, which bans camping and sleeping in a tent, car, RV, or on the ground on any public property or road in cities with over 100,000 residents. The law specifically targets public spaces in larger cities such as Boise, making it illegal to sleep in your vehicle in these areas unless you are in a designated camping or recreational zone.
The law took effect on July 1, 2025, and does not apply to commercial vehicles. It also exempts designated camping areas, meaning you can still legally sleep in your car at established campgrounds or parks.
Where Is Car Sleeping Still Allowed in Idaho?
- Outside Cities Over 100,000 Residents: In most of Idaho, outside of the largest cities, sleeping in your car is generally legal as long as you are not parked on private property without permission or violating other local ordinances.
- Designated Campgrounds and Rest Areas: State law allows for sleeping in your vehicle at official rest areas and campgrounds, typically for up to 8 hours at rest stops on interstate highways.
- Private Property with Permission: You may sleep in your car on private property if you have the owner’s permission. Otherwise, you risk being charged with trespassing.
Key Restrictions and Safety Tips
- Turn Off Your Engine and Lights: Always turn off your engine and headlights when sleeping in your car to avoid drawing unnecessary attention and to comply with safety regulations.
- Avoid Public Property in Large Cities: Sleeping in your car on public property, streets, or rights-of-way in cities like Boise is now illegal under the new law.
- Watch for Local Ordinances: Even outside of large cities, some towns or counties may have their own rules about overnight parking or car sleeping. Always check local regulations before settling in for the night.
- Safety First: Choose well-lit, safe areas with reasonable foot traffic if possible, and avoid isolated or high-crime locations.
Potential Legal Consequences
- Fines and Citations: Violating the new public camping ban in large cities can result in fines or citations.
- Towing: Your vehicle may be towed if you are parked illegally or on private property without permission.
- Trespassing Charges: Sleeping in your car on private property without permission can lead to trespassing charges.
Summary Table
| Location/Scenario | Legal in Idaho? | Notes/Exceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Public property in cities >100,000 people | No | Illegal under Senate Bill 1141 |
| Rest areas and campgrounds | Yes | Up to 8 hours at interstate rest stops |
| Private property with permission | Yes | Owner’s consent required |
| Private property without permission | No | Risk of trespassing charges |
| Streets in small towns/rural areas | Usually, but check | Local ordinances may apply |
Sleeping in your car is now illegal on public property in Idaho cities with over 100,000 residents, such as Boise, due to Senate Bill 1141.
However, it remains legal in most other parts of the state, at designated rest areas, and on private property with permission. Always check local rules and prioritize your safety when choosing a place to rest in your vehicle.
SOURCES:
- https://mix106radio.com/sleeping-in-car-legal-idaho-2022/
- https://www.kivitv.com/news/political/inside-the-statehouse/idaho-governor-signs-bill-banning-public-camping-in-larger-cities
- https://kezj.com/what-is-the-law-for-sleeping-in-your-car-in-idaho-and-washington/
- https://teamjustice.com/is-it-illegal-to-sleep-in-your-car/
