What Zoning is Needed for RV Storage? A Guide to Legal Requirements

Table of Contents:

What Zoning is Needed for RV Storage? A Guide to Legal RequirementsTable of Contents:

Understanding Zoning Basics

Commercial Zoning for RV Storage

Industrial Zoning Considerations

Special Permits and Conditional Use Zoning

Special Permits

Conditional Use Zoning

Environmental and Safety Regulations

Environmental Regulations:

Safety Regulations:

Community and Aesthetic Guidelines

Conclusion

Secure Your RV Storage at Lake of the Ozarks Today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - What Zoning is Needed for RV Storage?

1. Do I need a special permit to build an RV storage facility?

2. Are there specific zoning classifications for RV storage?

3. Can I store RVs on residential property?

4. What impact do local regulations have on RV storage facility design?

5. Are there environmental considerations in zoning for RV storage?

Understanding Zoning Basics

Zoning laws dictate how land can be used in specific areas, dividing regions into commercial, residential, industrial, and agricultural zones. RV storage typically falls under commercial or industrial zoning, but the exact requirements vary by location. 

Before establishing an RV storage facility, it's critical to research the zoning ordinances in your city, county, or state to ensure your chosen property is zoned appropriately for vehicle storage.

In many cases, special permits or variances may be required even in commercial or industrial zones, especially if the facility plans to offer large-scale storage options or additional services like repairs or rentals.

Commercial Zoning for RV Storage

Commercial zoning often provides the most straightforward path to opening an RV storage facility. Properties zoned for commercial use are generally suited for businesses like self-storage facilities, parking spaces, or large units capable of housing RVs. 

However, even within commercial zones, you may need to meet specific requirements such as maintaining a certain distance from residential areas or limiting the number of vehicles stored on the premises.

Additionally, commercial zoning often includes stipulations related to traffic flow, noise levels, and security. For example, you may be required to install security cameras, fencing, or provide 24-hour access to meet local standards for customer safety and convenience.

Industrial Zoning Considerations

In some cases, RV storage may be better suited to industrial zones, particularly when dealing with larger vehicles or outdoor parking spaces. Industrial zones typically allow for more flexibility in the size and scope of storage operations, making them ideal for facilities that cater to motor homes, campers, or boat storage.

However, the larger the facility, the more likely it is that environmental regulations will come into play. RVs and other large vehicles often require space for maintenance or cleaning, which might involve hazardous materials. 

Therefore, industrial zoning laws often require compliance with waste disposal regulations, runoff management, and other environmental safeguards.

Special Permits and Conditional Use Zoning

When setting up an RV storage facility, you might need to navigate special permits and conditional use zoning requirements. These regulatory measures ensure that your facility complies with local planning and zoning laws, helping to address potential concerns and integrate smoothly into the community.

Special Permits

For many locations, RV storage facilities need special permits to operate. This process typically involves:

• Application Process: Submitting a detailed proposal to the local planning commission, outlining the operational plans and benefits of the facility.
• Approval Criteria: Demonstrating how the facility will serve community needs while adhering to local zoning regulations and standards.

Conditional Use Zoning

In some areas, RV storage may be permitted under conditional use zoning, which allows businesses to operate in otherwise restricted zones. This often involves:

• Conditions: Complying with specific requirements such as landscaping, noise control, or traffic management to minimize impact on the surrounding area.
• Local Regulations: Adhering to the conditions set by the zoning board or municipality to ensure the facility integrates well with the community.

Understanding and navigating these zoning requirements is essential to establishing a compliant and successful RV storage facility.

Environmental and Safety Regulations

When operating an RV storage facility, adhering to environmental and safety regulations is crucial for ensuring the well-being of both the community and the environment. These regulations help minimize environmental impact and maintain a safe, secure facility.

Environmental Regulations:

• Waste Management: Implementing proper waste disposal practices for any hazardous materials, such as RV fluids or chemicals, to prevent soil and water contamination.
• Stormwater Management: Designing the facility to manage stormwater runoff effectively, which might include installing drainage systems or permeable surfaces to reduce environmental impact.
• Landscaping Requirements: Using native plants and sustainable landscaping practices to enhance the facility's environmental footprint and integrate it with the natural surroundings.

Safety Regulations:

• Fire Safety: Ensuring that the facility has adequate fire prevention and response measures, including fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and clear emergency exit routes.
• Security Measures: Installing security features such as surveillance cameras, gated access, and adequate lighting to protect stored RVs and ensure facility security.
• Accessibility: Designing the facility to be accessible and safe for all users, including clear signage, well-maintained access roads, and properly marked parking spaces.

By adhering to these environmental and safety regulations, you ensure that your RV storage facility operates responsibly and safely, contributing positively to the community and environment.

Community and Aesthetic Guidelines

In addition to zoning and safety regulations, many municipalities impose aesthetic or community guidelines for RV storage facilities. For example, some areas may require facilities to use specific fencing materials, plant landscaping, or design their buildings in ways that blend into the local architecture.

This is especially common in areas like Lake of the Ozarks, where tourism is a primary industry, and community standards are important for maintaining the area's appeal. Meeting these guidelines not only helps secure approval for your facility but can also make your business more attractive to potential customers

Conclusion

Navigating the zoning laws for RV storage facilities can be a complex process, but it's essential to ensuring the legal and smooth operation of your business. Whether you're planning to open a facility in a commercial or industrial zone, or you need a special permit to comply with local ordinances, understanding the requirements is key. 

From environmental regulations to safety codes, each factor plays a vital role in ensuring your RV storage facility meets the legal standards and provides a safe, secure space for customers to store their vehicles.

Secure Your RV Storage at Lake of the Ozarks Today!

If you're looking for reliable RV storage at Lake of the Ozarks, MO, we’ve got you covered! Whether you're in Osage Beach, Eldon, Bagnell Dam, Camdenton, Versailles, Gravois Mills, Sunrise Beach, Ha Ha Tonka Springs, or Greenview, our facility offers spacious and secure self storage units for all your storage needs.

With options designed specifically for RVs, our facility provides the ideal solution for protecting your vehicle year-round. We offer various self storage units to suit your needs, with easy access and peace of mind.

Don’t wait—call us today at (573) 527-2651 to reserve your space!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - What Zoning is Needed for RV Storage?