Sleeping in your car is generally legal in Wyoming, but there are important rules and local nuances to understand before you pull over for a nap or an overnight rest. Here’s what every driver should know to avoid fines, legal trouble, or safety risks.
Where Sleeping in Your Car Is Allowed
- Rest Areas: Wyoming has 37 rest areas open 24/7, and you are allowed to sleep in your car here to combat driver fatigue. Overnight parking is permitted, but overnight camping (setting up tents, grills, or other camping gear) is not allowed.
- Parking Lots & Truck Stops: You can sleep in your car at truck stops and some parking lots, as long as the business allows it and you are not violating posted rules.
- City Streets: It is legal to sleep in your car on city streets, provided you are parked legally and not in a no-parking zone, residential area with restrictions, or on private property without permission.
- Private Property: You must have the property owner’s permission to sleep in your car on private land, including retail parking lots and driveways.
Places to Avoid
- No Parking Zones: Sleeping in your car in areas where parking is not allowed can result in fines or your vehicle being towed.
- Private Property Without Permission: You risk trespassing charges if you park and sleep without the property owner’s consent.
- Emergency Shoulders: Highway shoulders are for emergencies only and are not considered safe or legal places to rest unless your vehicle is disabled.
How Long Can You Stay?
- Rest Areas: While some sources mention a recommended nap of 15–20 minutes, Wyoming allows drivers to sleep for longer periods to ensure safety, as long as you do not set up camp or stay for an extended period.
- No Specific Statewide Time Limit: There is no explicit statewide limit for sleeping in your car, but local ordinances or posted signs may impose restrictions.
Legal Risks and Considerations
- DUI Risk: If you are intoxicated and sleeping in your car, you could still be charged with DUI, especially if you are in the driver’s seat or have the keys accessible.
- Trespassing: Parking on private property without permission can lead to fines or criminal charges.
- Fines: Violating local ordinances or posted rules can result in fines, typically ranging from $100 to $500, depending on the infraction.
Safety Tips for Sleeping in Your Car
- Park in well-lit, safe areas like rest stops or truck stops.
- Lock your doors and keep valuables out of sight.
- Avoid sleeping in the driver’s seat if you are intoxicated.
- Do not leave windows fully open and avoid running your engine for long periods.
Quick Reference Table
| Location | Legal to Sleep? | Key Restrictions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rest Areas | Yes | No camping, no extended stays | 24/7 access |
| Truck Stops/Parking Lots | Yes | With business/owner permission | Check posted rules |
| City Streets | Yes | Must be legal parking, local rules | Avoid residential bans |
| Private Property | Yes, with permission | Trespassing without consent | Risk of fines |
Key Takeaways
- Sleeping in your car is legal in Wyoming as long as you follow parking rules and avoid private property without permission.
- Rest areas are the safest and most reliable places to rest, but do not set up camp or stay for days.
- Be aware of DUI laws and always prioritize safety and legality when choosing where to sleep in your vehicle.
Stay alert to local signage and ordinances, and when in doubt, choose a designated rest area or campground for overnight stops.
Sources
- https://teamjustice.com/is-it-illegal-to-sleep-in-your-car/
- https://mycountry955.com/does-wyoming-allow-people-to-sleep-in-their-car/
- https://www.wyomingrestareas.com/rest-area-rules/
- https://www.boondockersbible.com/learn/wyoming-rest-area-rules/
- https://landline.media/magazine/no-overnight-parking-at-state-rest-areas/
