Everything you need to know
A simple, safe, and affordable way to park and sleep in your vehicle — legally — in Nanaimo and surrounding areas.
Search listings by area, vehicle size, and surface type. Every listing shows real photos, host reviews, nearby landmarks, and house rules. No surprises.
Select your arrival date and time window (up to 10 hours). Pay online — from $18 CAD. You'll receive an instant booking confirmation with the exact address and host contact.
Show up at the agreed time, park in the designated spot, and rest. You are on private property with the owner's permission. No police, no tickets, no $50 hotel room.
Pack out everything you brought in. Leave the space exactly as you found it. Then leave an honest review — it helps future travellers and rewards great hosts.
These rules apply to every single booking on Driveway Stays. They exist to protect hosts, neighbours, and the community. Guests who violate these rules will be removed from the platform.
10-Hour Maximum
Every stay is capped at 10 hours. This keeps things fair for hosts and neighbours.
Quiet Hours
No music, no loud conversations, no revving engines. Respect the neighbourhood.
Leave No Trace
Pack out everything you bring in. No garbage, no cigarette butts, no mess.
No Facilities
Driveways are parking only — no washrooms, water, or power are provided or expected.
One Vehicle
Each booking is for one vehicle. Book multiple spots if travelling in convoy.
No Open Flames
No BBQs, camp stoves, or open fires on or near the driveway.
Be Respectful
You're a guest in someone's home. A friendly wave goes a long way.
Fully Legal
All listings are private property. You have permission to be there — sleep easy.
Is it actually legal to sleep in my car on someone's driveway?
Yes — when you have the property owner's explicit permission, you are a lawful guest on private property. Driveway Stays provides that permission through the booking confirmation. You are not trespassing, and local bylaws do not apply to private property in the same way as public streets.
Are there any washrooms or facilities?
No. Driveway Stays listings are parking-only. There are no washrooms, water hookups, power outlets, or any other facilities. Guests are responsible for their own needs. We recommend planning ahead — many 24-hour gas stations and fast food locations are nearby most listings.
What is the maximum stay length?
Every booking is capped at 10 hours. This keeps things fair for hosts, neighbours, and the community. If you need longer, you are welcome to book a second consecutive night if the host approves.
What if I arrive late or need to leave early?
That's completely fine. Your booking window is flexible within the 10-hour maximum. Just be quiet if arriving or departing during quiet hours (typically 10 PM – 7 AM).
What happens if I leave garbage or cause damage?
Guests who leave garbage or cause damage will receive a negative review and may be removed from the platform. Hosts can also charge a cleaning fee through the platform. We take the Leave No Trace rule very seriously.
How do hosts get paid?
Hosts receive 90% of the booking price, paid directly to their bank account or e-transfer within 48 hours of a completed stay. The platform retains a 10% service fee.
Is Driveway Stays available outside Nanaimo?
Currently, Driveway Stays serves Nanaimo and the immediately surrounding communities: Lantzville, Parksville, Ladysmith, Chemainus, and Cedar. We plan to expand to other Vancouver Island communities in 2026.
What if I have a problem during my stay?
Contact the host directly through the platform messaging system. For emergencies, call 911. Driveway Stays support is available by email 7 days a week.
Browse available driveways in Nanaimo and surrounding areas right now.