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1. Why are there regulations on where and how long I leave a trailer parked?

There are several reasons for limiting the location or time period for parking a trailer or vehicle. Allowing them to remain on the street inhibits such things as street maintenance, cleaning, and snow removal. They can also create additional danger to pets and children that may suddenly appear on the street.

Trailers which are parked in front of the residence for extended periods of time become nuisances and sight obstructions for your neighbors.

2. Can I park a vehicle on my yard or lawn?

Yes. It must be operable and licensed. 

If the vehicle is inoperable and/or unlicensed it must be screened from view. 

3. How many cars can my neighbor have in their driveway?

There is no limit to the number of cars someone can own.

However, all vehicles that are parked in a driveway must be drivable and have current license plates. Vehicles parked on the street are subject to the 24-hour rule.

4. Can I park an unlicensed or inoperable vehicle in my driveway?

Unlicensed or inoperable/non-driven vehicles must be screened from view. 

5. Can I place a cover over an unlicensed or inoperable vehicle and keep it?

Yes.

6. How long can I leave a vehicle or trailer parked on the street?

No vehicle or trailer may be parked on a city street for more than 24 hours.

7. Where can I park my camper or boat trailer?

Parking regulations apply to all trailers, regardless of the type or purpose of the trailer. Trailers may be parked on a city street for no more than 24 hours. Trailers may not be on any lot in any residential district for more than 48 hours unless it is located behind the front yard building line. 

The parking and storage of recreational and semi-tractor truck vehicles shall be permitted within residential zoning districts according to the following table.

Type of Vehicle	Permitted Location for Parking and Storage Year Round	Maximum Distance Extended From the Front Building Line	Minimum Distance From Back of Sidewalk	Minimum Distance From Back of Curb
Fifth wheel camper	Side or rear yard	10 feet	5 feet	15 feet
Travel trailer	Side or rear yard	10 feet	5 feet	15 feet
Pop-up camper when fully stowed	Side or rear yard or driveway	No maximum	5 feet	15 feet
Enclosed cargo trailer	Side or rear yard	10 feet	5 feet	15 feet
Open trailer	Side or rear yard or driveway	No maximum	5 feet	15 feet
Semi-tractor truck Motorhome	Side or Rear Yard	10 feet	5 feet if parked with front bumper facing the street, OR 15 feet if parked with front bumper facing the interior of the property.	15 feet
Boat on a trailer	Side or rear yard	10 feet	5 feet	15 feet

On corner lots, distances apply to both street frontages.

8. Can someone stay in a camper or RV parked on my property?

City ordinance permits someone to stay in a legally parked camper for up to 10 consecutive days. State law only allows one camper per lot. Two or more campers meet the definition of a campground; multiple other regulations are then applicable.

Except for residential areas, temporary parking and occupancy of a camping trailer is only permitted in a commercial campground. In residential neighborhoods, the following restrictions apply:

• May be occupied for no more than 10 consecutive days
• May not be parked in the city right-of-way
• May not be parked on a city street or alley
• May only be parked on a lot that already contains a house
• Must be located behind the front line of your home
• Must be parked on private property

9. Who do I call if a vehicle or trailer remains parked on the street for several days?

The Spearfish Police Department handles all complaints of illegal parking on city streets. You may contact them by calling 605-642-1300.