The legality of sleeping in your car in Indiana depends primarily on location, intent, and compliance with local ordinances—but for most travelers and residents, it is generally legal with some important caveats.
State Law: No Blanket Ban
There is no statewide Indiana law that makes it illegal to sleep in your car. In fact, state agencies and legal resources confirm that catching some rest in your car is typically not considered a crime—especially for travelers needing to pull over for safety. Indiana recognizes the importance of preventing drowsy driving and provides rest areas along highways where overnight stays are largely permitted.
Where You Can (and Can’t) Sleep in Your Car
Highway Rest Stops
Allowed: Indiana law allows drivers to sleep at highway rest stops. Most rest areas are open 24/7, and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) has no rule against sleeping overnight unless posted otherwise.
Exceptions: A handful of busy rest areas may post signs that prohibit overnight parking or sleeping. If you come across such signage, you must comply and move on.
Residential Streets, Public Property & City Rules
Public Property: Some cities and towns may have ordinances that prohibit sleeping in vehicles on public streets or city property. For example, the city of Lawrence has laws against lying or sleeping in public spaces except in designated parks. Always check local regulations in the area where you plan to park overnight.
Private Property: Never sleep in your car on private property (including retail parking lots) without explicit permission. Doing so could result in trespassing charges or having your car towed.
Businesses & Parking Lots
Grocery Stores and Large Retailers: Some stores, such as Walmart locations that are open 24/7, may allow car sleepers in their parking lots, but this depends on individual store policy. Always ask for permission first.
Churches, Campgrounds, RV Parks: Some churches and campgrounds may let you park overnight with approval. Check rules and get permission before staying.
DUI and Sleeping in Your Car
If you are intoxicated and decide to “sleep it off” in your car, you could still face DUI or OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) charges. Indiana law prohibits being in “actual physical control” of a vehicle while legally intoxicated, even if you are not driving. Courts consider factors like whether the keys are in the ignition, if the engine is running, and your position in the vehicle. It’s risky and not a guaranteed defense to merely be asleep in your car if impaired.
Recent Developments
As of July 2025, Indiana legislators are advancing laws targeting homelessness, including possible bans on sleeping (camping) on certain types of public property, with specific exceptions. Enforcement (when passed) is still subject to local application, and such laws would not typically apply to travelers resting legally at rest stops or in compliance with posted rules.
Safety and Best Practices
Always park in well-lit, safe areas designated for overnight parking.
Comply with posted signs and local ordinances.
Never park somewhere that impedes traffic or access.
Be aware that leaving the engine running while sleeping can risk carbon monoxide poisoning—turn it off overnight.
Secure valuables and keep doors locked.
Key Takeaways
Sleeping in your car is legal in most of Indiana, especially at highway rest stops (unless signage states otherwise).
Always check local ordinances in cities or towns—and do not sleep in your vehicle on private property without permission.
Sleeping in your car while intoxicated could still result in DUI charges.
New laws targeting sleeping on public property are being considered, but as of July 2025, these do not override established practice for highway rest stops and designated parking zones.
If in doubt, consult the local police department or city clerk’s office where you plan to stay to avoid any legal trouble and ensure your rest is undisturbed.
Sources
[1] https://news.yahoo.com/sleep-car-indianapolis-law-says-154820654.html
[2] https://www.warforindy.com/post/illegal-to-sleep-in-car
[3] https://gotidyshop.com/blogs/car-camping/is-it-illegal-to-sleep-in-your-car
[4] https://www.boondockersbible.com/learn/indiana-rest-area-rules/
[5] https://lunolife.com/en-ca/blogs/journal/is-it-illegal-to-sleep-in-your-car
