Public Spaces
- Overnight Parking Restrictions: Many cities in Wisconsin have specific overnight parking restrictions. For example, Stevens Point has alternate side parking rules, and St. Francis prohibits overnight parking without a permit between 3:00 AM and 5:00 AM.
- DNR Lands: On Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) lands, overnight parking is allowed in certain areas for visitors on multi-day trips, but vehicles must not be left for more than 48 hours without notice.
Private Property
- Parking Regulations: Private property owners can set their own parking rules. In Wisconsin Dells, for instance, private property parking regulations require vehicles to be roadworthy and licensed, stored on a driveway or hard surface.
- Trespassing Laws: Sleeping in a vehicle on private property without permission can lead to trespassing charges.
Legal Considerations
- No Specific State Law: Wisconsin does not have a specific state law prohibiting car sleeping, but local ordinances and private property rules apply.
- Public Safety: Law enforcement may intervene if car sleeping poses a public safety risk or violates local regulations.
Alternatives and Resources
- Homeless Shelters: Many communities offer homeless shelters or temporary housing options for those in need.
- Local Assistance Programs: Some cities provide assistance programs for individuals experiencing homelessness, including temporary housing and support services.
Best Practices
- Check Local Regulations: Always check local parking and sleeping regulations before deciding to sleep in a vehicle.
- Seek Permission: If parking on private property, obtain permission from the property owner.
- Use Designated Areas: Use designated overnight parking areas or shelters if available.
- https://stevenspoint.com/226/Overnight-Parking
- https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/rules/parking
- https://stfranciswi.org/index.asp?SEC=4F64561B-0AE0-49B4-A7C4-74B0581706E2&DE=F05AE812-7550-4E40-9172-E0918E2CE69D
- https://www.greenbaywi.gov/782/Night-Parking