San Francisco is preparing to prohibit homeless individuals from residing in recreational vehicles (RVs) by enforcing a two-hour parking limit on oversized vehicles. The measure, set for final approval by supervisors on Tuesday, targets roughly 400 RVs in the city of 800,000. Officials say the change is needed to keep sidewalks accessible and prevent littering, while opponents warn it may unjustly displace those relying on RVs for shelter.
City Enforces Strict Limits
A new ordinance introduces a universal two-hour parking restriction for RVs and oversized vehicles longer than 22 feet or over 7 feet tall. Those registered with the city by May may obtain a special six-month permit, but only if they accept temporary or longer-term housing and surrender their RV when asked. The city has allocated over $500,000 to purchase registered RVs at $175 per foot.
Permit Program Under Scrutiny
The permit system exempts registered RV dwellers from the time limits if they accept city housing support. Critics argue the city lacks a clear rollout plan. “I think that there’s going to be people who lose their RVs,” said Jennifer Friedenbach of the Coalition on Homelessness, warning that higher-need individuals may be overlooked in the process.
Homeless RV Living Grows
With housing costs rising, more people have turned to RVs as shelter. Advocates say banning vehicle living punishes those with no other options. The mayor’s policy fits a larger trend of cities pressuring homeless individuals to enter shelters or face penalties, including ticketing, towing, or arrest.
Residents Highlight Realities
Carlos Perez, a 55-year-old produce deliveryman, relies on his RV home to care for his disabled brother. “We don’t do anything wrong. We try to keep this street clean,” he said. Another RV dweller, Zach, said he prefers RV life over shelters and expects to qualify for the permit. “If housing were affordable, there is a very good chance I wouldn’t be out here,” he added.
City Closes RV Lot
San Francisco shut down its only RV lot in April, citing a $4 million annual cost and limited success moving people into permanent homes. Now, the city plans to boost parking enforcement and invest $11 million more into housing assistance, hotel vouchers, and outreach programs, though officials admit it’s not enough for everyone in need.
Nonprofits Express Concern
Erica Kisch, CEO of Compass Family Services, said her organization appreciates the funding but not the policy’s punitive side. “It’s recognition that households should not be living in vehicles, that we need to do better for families, and for seniors and for anyone else who’s living in a vehicle,” she stated. “San Francisco can do better, certainly.”