RV and trailer storage on spare land
Turn unused land into a fenced gravel lot where RV owners pay monthly to store motorhomes and trailers.
- C$15k-60k
- Side hustle
- Own premises
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
A small outdoor storage lot on land you already own or rent, such as a rural property, farm corner or large lot. You rent spaces to owners of motorhomes, travel trailers and campers, especially for off-season storage.
Your first three steps
- Call your municipality to ask whether zoning allows vehicle storage on your land and whether you need a development permit or business licence
- If you rent the land, get the landowner's written permission for commercial storage use
- Lay out a simple lot plan, then get quotes for grading, gravel, fencing, a lockable gate, lighting and cameras
Who pays
RV and trailer owners who have no room at home or whose neighbourhood or condo rules ban RV parking.
How it makes money
Monthly or seasonal fee per space, with discounts for paying a full season or year upfront. Larger units can pay a higher rate.
Skills that help
- Organising and record keeping
- Friendly customer service
- Basic site maintenance
Watch out for
- Zoning, development permit and business licence rules vary by municipality, and some rural or agricultural land may need rezoning or a use permit, so confirm before spending money
- Ask your insurer about commercial liability and cover for other people's vehicles on your land
- Use a written storage agreement that sets out liability, access hours and late payment rules
- Winter snow clearing and access, plus drainage and mud in spring
- Theft or damage claims, so consider cameras and good lighting
Deep research report · Canada
Everything you need to start: rV and trailer storage on spare land
Researched with live web search for Canada: real startup prices, the licences and rules, what others charge, a break-even example, how to find your first customers and a 30-day launch plan. With sources.
- Startup costs with real prices
- Licences, registration and rules
- Pricing: what others charge
- Break-even example
- Finding your first customers
- 30-day launch plan
- Risks and how to reduce them
Questions people ask
How much does it cost to start an RV storage lot in Canada?
Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000 CAD, depending on fencing, gravel, gating, lighting and how much site work your land needs. Your own costs will vary by property and location.
How much can an RV and trailer storage lot earn?
Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $600 to $3,000 CAD, depending on how many spaces you offer, how full the lot is and what you charge. These are estimates, not guarantees.
What rules should I check before opening an RV storage lot?
Check zoning, development permit and business licence rules with your municipality, since some rural or agricultural land may need rezoning or a use permit. Also ask your insurer about commercial liability and cover for other people's vehicles on your land.
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