Is It Illegal To Live In A Camper Van Permanently?

Can you live in a Camper Van? As I’ve Probably mentioned numerous times, I live in the UK. I used to live in Spain until recently, and I’ve travelled widely. My knowledge of Law is limited, but I have researched this subject thoroughly enough to give an answer in Layman’s terms.

There is no current law in the UK stating that anyone can’t live in a Camper Van permanently.

However, with that being said, there are numerous Laws relating to the Camper Van itself, it’s condition, where it is placed, whether it is considered a mobile structure or not and if it is preventing access to emergency vehicles or other residents.

So we’ll discuss the main points that I unearthed during my research and finish up with some FAQ’s and other points that you should probably consider before you take the plunge and opt for a full on “Van Life“.

Contents

• 1 Does My Camper Van Have To Be Roadworthy For Me To Live In It?
• 2 Are There Laws Preventing Me From Living In A Camper Van?
• 3 How Can I Get Mail If I Live In A Camper Van Permanently?
• 4 What Are The Implications Of Becoming “Of No Fixed Abode” (NFA) If You Live In A Camper Van?
• 5 Can I Buy A Cheap Piece Of Land And Live In A Camper Van On It?
• 6 Where Is A Good Place To Park A Camper Van To Live In It?
• 7 Is It Legal To Sleep In A Camper Van On The Public Road?
• 8 Is It Illegal To Live In A Camper Van FAQ’s – Other Considerations

Does My Camper Van Have To Be Roadworthy For Me To Live In It?

Yes, and No.

If you plan to live in a Camper Van and it is on a Public Road in the UK and you are in charge of operating it, you must hold a Full Driving Licence (showing that you are actually capable or operating it). Read more...