Why Georgia law might allow you to sleep in your car at rest stops
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported over 600 deaths from drowsy-driving-related crashes in 2024. With so many people traveling for the holiday season, is it legal to pull over and take a nap in Georgia? Here's what we know: Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Georgia? Georgia has no specific statewide laws on just sleeping in your car, but cities and local municipalities may have laws regarding loitering, vagrancy, etc. For example, Roswell's code does not allow camping on public property (including parks) which includes "sleeping in a single place for any substantial prolonged period of time." Can I sleep at Georgia rest areas? Georgia § 32-6-6 does not allow camping at rest areas (as in pitching a tent and staying for long periods of time). But, it excludes the "normal, customary, and temporary use of safety rest areas, welcome centers, tourist centers, and other property of the department or state highway system specifically designated for purposes of resting, sleeping, eating, or other similar activities by persons traveling by vehicle." Where is the nearest Georgia rest area? I-16 East at Milepost 44 in Laurens County I-16 West at Milepost 46 in Laurens County I-20 East at
