Alabama lacks a statewide ban on sleeping in one’s vehicle, offering travelers and those facing housing challenges some flexibility compared to stricter states.
However, local ordinances, private property rules, and public safety laws create a patchwork of restrictions that demand caution. This article breaks down the legal landscape as of early 2026, drawing from state codes, municipal rules, and practical guidance to help drivers stay compliant.
Statewide Legal Framework
No Alabama statute explicitly criminalizes sleeping in a parked car on public roads or shoulders, distinguishing it from states like California with anti-camping laws.
The Alabama Code focuses on traffic safety, prohibiting parking that obstructs traffic or endangers others, such as on highways or interstates (§32-5A-53). Rest areas ban overnight stays beyond short breaks (typically 3 hours), enforced by the Alabama Department of Transportation to prevent loitering.…