Evicting an RV Occupant on Private Property: Legal and Practical Steps

Dealing with an RV occupant refusing to leave private property can be a challenging situation. Whether you're in a small rural area or a bustling neighborhood, the approach to eviction should follow specific steps to ensure both legal compliance and safety. Here, we'll explore the necessary actions and their practical implications.

Legal Considerations and Actions

The legality of evicting an RV occupant hinges on jurisdiction-specific laws. In many places, such as my US state and county, living in an RV without a licensed RV park is illegal, and violators can be swiftly dealt with through local authorities. Below are the steps to take if you encounter an RV occupant who persists despite repeated requests to vacate your property.

1. Consult an Attorney

Due to the varying laws across jurisdictions, it's essential to consult a local attorney to understand your specific rights and obligations. This is crucial, especially in cases where the situation is complex or confrontational.

2. Contact Local Authorities

Step 1: Contact Law Enforcement Serve notice to the occupant that they must vacate the premises immediately due to trespassing. If they continue to refuse, local police can issue a trespassing charge. Police officers can also provide additional support if the situation escalates.

Step 2: File an Informal Notice If the police cannot issue a trespassing charge, consider filing an informal notice with your local code enforcement department. They have the authority to issue an 'illegal activities' eviction, which is typically expedited.

Practical Steps for Eviction

While legal procedures are in place, ensuring the physical removal of the RV occupant is another practical step. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Contact a Towing Company

Having a towing company on speed dial is highly recommended. Have the vehicle towed at the owner's expense when the occupant is not present. This not only removes the immediate issue but also avoids prolonged legal battles.

2. Utilize No Trespassing Signs

Posting no trespassing signs in the area where the RV is parked is a clear and concise method of communication. Ensure that signs are easily visible and understandable, emphasizing that failure to comply will result in legal action.

Handling Rural Areas without Local Police

In some remote areas, such as up in the mountains, local police might be scarce. In these cases, taking proactive measures to ensure safety and compliance can be vital. Check the frequency of patrols by state police and determine if they can be contacted in an emergency.

1. Self-Policing

While not ideal, if the area is known to be relatively safe from typical urban crimes, you may take a more hands-off approach. This includes appearing on your own to deliver the necessary notices and ensuring the signs are prominently displayed. However, always prioritize your safety and that of your property.

2. Legal Protection

Having a clear legal strategy and staying in touch with a local attorney can provide you with the necessary backup if the situation warrants it. Keep all communications and notices documented for legal proof.

Conclusion: Evicting an RV occupant from private property requires a balanced approach that respects legal obligations and maintains safety. By taking the outlined steps and remaining informed, you can effectively address this issue while protecting your property rights.