Legal to Sleep at a Rest Stop in Illinois? It’s Very Complicated

I have slept at a rest stop before and I don't recommend it if you don't have to. That one was not in Illinois which is fortunate because the law about whether or not Illinois thinks that is OK is very complicated.

I saw the website Boondocker's Bible ask the same question and they pointed to Illinois rest area rules which are featured in Administrative Code under Title 92, Chapter I, Subchapter f, Part 533. Editorial comment: whoever came up with the outline for how Illinois publishes these laws seems to be doing everything they can to keep you from finding the information you need.

But can you sleep overnight at a rest stop in Illinois?

I'll save you some time and give you the short version. The answer is yes and no. It's mainly no. Illinois says "camping is prohibited" and the maximum stay time at a rest stop in Illinois is 3 hours.

But...the Boondocker's Bible infers there's a loophole. They mention that IDOT is more concerned about drivers who are traveling tired and that's especially true for truck drivers who are required to sleep at least 10 hours for every 11 hours of driving.

So what's the real answer?

Read the signs posted at each Illinois rest stop carefully. I'm no lawyer, but I'd abide by what's posted at each specific site whenever possible. I'd also use common sense. If you feel so tired you fear you'd be in danger (for you and others) if driving, then get your rest. I don't know any Illinois enforcement officer who's going to have a problem with you if you genuinely need the rest beyond the 3 hour limit. But, again I'm no lawyer and that's just my common sense talking.

One other anecdotal note: Years ago I played racquetball regularly with a couple of Illinois state police officers. Neither seemed to be the type of person who was hoping to cause trouble for anyone. Both just wanted to keep everyone safe and I can't imagine either of these guys throwing you out of a rest stop if they thought you were exhausted.

If you enjoy reading documents meant for lawyers, check out the Illinois Secretary of State website for more specifics and details.