Putnam County Temporary RV Occupancy Permits: When You Need One and How It Works

Written By Evan & Chloe

Putnam County allows recreational vehicles (RVs) in specific temporary situations that require a Temporary Use Permit (TUP). This page explains when a TUP is needed, how long it lasts, and what conditions must be met.

This content is specific to Putnam County, Florida and is based on the county’s land development regulations and official application documents.

What a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) is

A Temporary Use Permit allows the temporary use of land or structures for purposes not normally permitted under standard zoning rules.

In the context of RVs, a TUP may be required for:

  • RVs used during land clearing

  • RVs used during home construction

  • RVs used due to extreme hardship

Each situation has its own rules and maximum duration.

When a TUP is required for RV occupancy

1. Land clearing

If RVs are needed on the property while clearing land, a TUP is required. The rules include:

  • RV must be self-contained

  • No outside electrical or water connections unless permitted

  • Waste must be properly disposed at a licensed facility

  • Maximum stay: 60 days

This allows workers or owners to stay on site during clearing, but the stay is still temporary and regulated.

2. During home construction

Putnam County allows RV occupancy while building a home only with a TUP, and if certain conditions are met:

✔ All required building and construction permits are secured
✔ Construction will begin within 90 days of RV placement
✔ RV stays are limited to 6 months
✔ A one-time extension may be granted if construction is actively progressing
✔ Maximum combined duration: 12 months
✔ RV use ends within 30 days of final inspection

Additional permit fees may apply if the RV is connected to utilities that require inspections.

These rules aim to prevent permanent RV living during construction and ensure activity aligns with bona-fide building progress.

3. Extreme hardship

A TUP may be issued under hardship conditions such as:

  • Medical emergencies

  • Destruction of a principal dwelling

  • Other qualifying personal hardships

Under hardship:

  • TUP duration: up to 6 months

  • RV may be self-contained or legally connected to utilities

  • Approval is discretionary and requires justification

Permits under hardship are individually reviewed by county officials.

How long temporary RV permits last

Putnam County’s TUPs have clear maximum durations based on use:

Use TypeMaximum DurationExtension?Land Clearing60 daysNoHome Construction6 monthsOne extension possible (up to 12 months total)Extreme Hardship6 monthsDiscretionary, case by case

This helps maintain clarity on how long an RV can temporarily be used on a property with official approval.

What is NOT allowed even with a TUP

Even with a temporary permit:

  • RVs cannot serve as permanent housing

  • RVs cannot be on a foundation

  • RVs must not have permanent utility hook-ups unless properly permitted

  • RVs cannot be rented out as housing

Permanent residency in an RV remains prohibited by county policy.

How to apply for a TUP in Putnam County

To apply for a Temporary Use Permit:

  1. Contact Putnam County Planning and Development Services

  2. Complete the official TUP application

  3. Provide site plans and justification for RV use

  4. Pay the permit fee

  5. Await county review and approval

Official contact and resources:

  • Putnam County Planning and Development Services
    2509 Crill Avenue, Suite 300, Palatka, FL 32177

  • Email: pzb@putnam-fl.gov

  • Phone: (386) 329-0307

This information is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee permit approval.

FAQ — Putnam County Temporary RV Occupancy

Q: What is a Temporary Use Permit (TUP)?
A: A TUP allows temporary use of land for activities not normally permitted, like RV occupancy during construction or hardship.

Q: Do I need a TUP for RV living while building a home?
A: Yes. RV occupancy during construction requires a TUP with valid building permits and compliance with county rules.

Q: How long does a TUP last?
A: Depends on use. Typically up to 60 days for clearing, 6 months for construction (possible extension), and 6 months under hardship.

Q: Is a TUP permanent?
A: No. A TUP is temporary by definition and does not allow permanent RV living.

Official Sources (Citable Links)

Putnam County

Evan & Chloe https://www.paradiseparcels.com
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