San Francisco weighs ban on homeless people living in RVs

San Francisco is considering a ban on RV living to address sidewalk obstructions and trash, impacting around 400 vehicles housing those who can't afford traditional housing. While RV residents see it as a necessary solution in the expensive city, Mayor Lurie argues they are unsuitable for long-term living and the city must provide shelter and clean streets. The city proposes a two-hour parking limit for oversized vehicles, coupled with a permit program for registered RV residents who agree to accept housing and relinquish their RV. Critics argue this is cruel, given the limited housing options and potential loss of their only home, while the city will offer subsidized housing to a small number of households. The city will buy back RVs from residents at $175 per foot, and those who arrive after May will not be eligible for the permit program. RV residents like Carlos Perez and Zach cite the inability to afford rent and the preference for RV living over restrictive shelters. A previously closed RV lot highlights challenges in transitioning people to stable housing, and the new plan includes increased parking enforcement and additional funding for subsidized housing. Nonprofit organizations acknowledge the inadequacy of vehicle living but express concern about the proposal's punitive nature. Advocates call for a safe parking lot with essential services to support RV residents.