Travelling through North Dakota and planning to catch a few hours of sleep in your car? You’re not alone. Many road-trippers, RV users, and budget travellers often take this route. The good news is—sleeping in your car is generally legal in North Dakota, but there are a few important rules and local regulations you must be aware of before you park for the night.
Where Can You Sleep in Your Car in North Dakota?
1. Rest Areas
Rest areas are the safest and most convenient places to sleep in your car. North Dakota allows drivers to stop at designated rest stops along highways. You can usually stay for several hours without any issue. Some are even monitored for safety, but a trooper or park official might check in on you.
2. Public Campgrounds and State Parks
You can park and sleep in designated spots within state parks or campgrounds, though some may require a fee or permit. These areas are designed for overnight stays and usually offer restrooms and basic facilities.
City-Specific Rules You Should Know
While the state doesn’t have a blanket ban on sleeping in cars, individual cities may have their own restrictions, especially when it comes to overnight parking.
Fargo
Fargo has detailed parking rules that vary by the area and even by the direction of the road.
Restrictions in the Central Business District:
- East-West Avenues: No parking between 2 AM and 7 AM on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday
- North-South Streets: No parking between 2 AM and 7 AM on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
Also, Fargo enforces seasonal overnight parking restrictions from November 1 to April 15 to allow snow removal, so make sure you’re not violating winter rules.
Wahpeton
Wahpeton has limits on how long you can park on public streets:
- Maximum 48 consecutive hours on public roads
- Maximum 30 minutes in public alleys
What About Private Property?
Some private businesses may allow overnight parking—Walmart is a popular example. Many Walmart locations, especially in Fargo, reportedly permit overnight parking for cars and even RVs, but it’s always best to call and ask for permission beforehand.
Parking on private property without permission can lead to trespassing issues, so avoid parking in residential driveways, business lots, or private lands unless clearly allowed.
Key Things to Avoid
1. Sleeping While Intoxicated
Even if you’re just sleeping in your car and not driving, being intoxicated inside your vehicle can still get you charged with a DUI in North Dakota. Police may interpret this as being in control of the vehicle while under the influence.
2. Not Checking Local Laws
Each city or municipality can have its own rules about street parking, time limits, and overnight stays. Before settling down, it’s always smart to check the local city website or ask a local officer.
Sleeping in your car in North Dakota is usually legal, but staying informed is key. Stick to rest areas, designated campgrounds, or private business parking lots (with permission) for a hassle-free experience.
Watch out for time limits, city-specific parking laws, and never sleep in your car while intoxicated. With the right planning, you can safely rest during your road trip without worrying about fines or legal trouble.