Seattle City Council approves Vehicle Resident Assistance Program

The Seattle City Council has passed a six-part legislative package known as the Vehicle Resident Assistance Program (VRAP) to regulate residents living in recreational vehicles and trailers. Sponsored by Councilmember Dan Strauss, the legislation aims to balance social service expansion with public space regulation.

Under the new rules, vehicle residents must participate in a one-time census and maintain case management to obtain permits. These permits will allow parking in designated industrial zones, but even permitted vehicles will be required to move every 72 hours. The package also authorizes "shelter storage" locations for individuals transitioning to indoor housing and grants leasing authority for transitional encampments and respite areas.

To address sanitation and livability concerns, the council implemented a strict two-hour parking limit for unpermitted RVs. The regulations are set to take effect on April 30, 2027, followed by a 90-day warning period, with active enforcement of parking restrictions beginning no earlier than August 1, 2027. A "Check and Adjust" working group will monitor the rollout and recommend adjustments.

The legislation has faced criticism from homelessness advocates and the National Vehicle Residency Coalition, who argue the permitting requirements—such as maintaining valid vehicle registration—function as a de facto ban on RV living. Mayor Katie Wilson has expressed concerns regarding the implementation costs, though the council maintains sufficient votes to override a potential veto.