VENTURA, Calif. — On Tuesday, November 18, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to pass a new local ordinance that will ban overnight parking and camping on certain roads next to farmland in County unincorporated areas. The goal is to protect local agriculture and the environment, while also ensuring public safety. The new ordinance, which was approved during the regular meeting for the Board of Supervisors, goes into effect January 1, 2026.
Following concerns about the impact of individuals camping in vehicles along unincorporated farmlands, the ordinance was drafted through collaboration with various County agencies including the Ventura County Public Works Agency, Sheriff’s Office, Resource Management Agency, and the Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures to provide increased protection for local crop cultivation while finding sensible solutions to the issue of overnight vehicle parking. Over the past two years, the County has been made aware of more than 200 cases of trespassing, crop damage, and stolen equipment reported on farm properties.
“Protecting our farmland and the people who feed our community is a top priority,” said District 4 Supervisor Janice Parvin, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “This ordinance helps ensure our local farms can continue to operate safely and successfully with minimal disruption to operations while we also connect people to the help and housing they need.”
The new law will apply only to designated County roads that border farmland. It does not apply to residential neighborhoods, the coastline, or rural mountain areas. Over 280 road segments have been approved for possible future signage. Signs announcing the prohibition of overnight camping will be posted only where needed.
As part of the first phase of the program, the Board of Supervisors has approved $250,000 in funding, which includes the installation of about 724 “No Overnight Parking” signs and the launch of a public outreach campaign. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, which has an established Homeless Liaison Unit, will handle enforcement with existing staff and resources.
“This ordinance was built through teamwork across numerous County departments with the goal to meet the needs of the community,” shared 1st District Supervisor Matt LaVere. “It’s a balanced approach that supports our local agricultural community, public safety, and compassion.”
Before any enforcement begins, the County will lead an outreach effort to let people know about the new parking restrictions. Those living in vehicles or camps will be given information on housing and services. The County has invested in shelters, support programs, and housing to help individuals experiencing homelessness. As part of the new rules, property owners with land located alongside affected roads can choose to help by installing signs with County approval. This voluntary program allows more signs to be posted along more roads without creating additional costs to taxpayers.
Individuals found camping or parking overnight in a restricted area will first receive a written notice to move their vehicle within 24 hours. Those who receive notice but do not leave can then face a fine or other legal consequences. The ordinance makes violations a misdemeanor, which could mean a fine of up to $1,000 or up to six months in jail.
For more information about County programs and services, please visit venturacounty.gov.
