Rules and regulations for motorhomes in Cornwall this summer
It’s that time of year when Cornwall’s roads are full of motorhomes, but where can they park legally and for how long, and what’s the code of conduct expected of their owners?
Cornwall Council has a list of rules and advice for those using motorhomes in the Duchy.
Motorhomes can park during the day in any of Cornwall Council’s car parks where they are a permitted class. Some car parks allow overnight parking for self-contained motorhomes, while other car parks have overnight (11pm to 8am) parking bans for motorhomes.
Please refer to the individual car park page for details – found here.
Weight restrictions
You should look at the information on the page for the car park you are wishing to use, to check the weight restriction. If your vehicle exceeds that, then you must not park.
Please check the table at the bottom of the individual car park pages to see if it is suitable for motorhomes.
Overnight parking
Overnight (between 11pm and 8am) parking is allowed in some of council car parks for self-contained motorhomes (on board WC). Charges apply, please follow the information signs in the following car parks:
Bodmin – Victoria Square
Bude – Crescent
Falmouth – Gyllyngvase
Fowey – Main
Launceston – Cattle Market (short stay)
Marazion – Marazion Station
Newquay – Watergate Bay
Padstow – Link Road
Perranporth – Wheal Leisure
Seaton – Bridge
St Ives – Trenwith
A motorhome overnight ticket must be purchased for each night you stay. Standard pay and display and electronic tickets/permits are not valid for overnight motorhome parking. This includes:
24-hour tickets
Weekly tickets
Season tickets
Rover tickets
Code of conduct
Please refer to the information signage in the individual car parks if you wish to stay. Examples include:
Maximum of two consecutive nights only
Your motorhome must be self contained with its own toilet
Leave no trace in respect of rubbish/dog waste
Be respectful to local residents
Vehicles and contents parked at owner’s risk
A Penalty Charge Notice may be issued for non-compliance – see tariff board for details.
Where to park and what to pay
Cornwall Council car parks do not have specific bays for motorhomes/caravans. You will need to use standard parking bays.
Please remember that you must pay for all parking bays you use. If your vehicle covers two or more spaces you will need to pay for each one.
You must not use disabled bays unless you are displaying a Blue Badge.
You also cannot use any bays marked for specific users. For example, reserved or permit bays.
Please follow the guidance on the information signage in the car park.
Search online for details of caravan parks, campsites and holiday parks suitable for motorhomes.