The Wal-Mart Corporation has an official statement regarding RV parking at Wal-Mart stores. Here is the complete statement (as of 9/14/04) from the Wal-Mart Website:
"Wal-Mart permits recreational-vehicle (RV) parking on our store lots, as we are able. The ability to accommodate RVs is determined on a store-by-store basis, contingent upon available space, local regulations and ordinances".
Below is a list of etiquette for Wal-Mart RVers that was posted on another RV site:
(1) Always go in and ask for permission if you arrive during store hours. If you'll be arriving after hours and already know that you'll be staying at the store, call the store ahead of time for permission. Always get the name of the person you talked with.
(2) If you arrive without permission after the store is closed, park in the furthermost corner away from the store. Look to see if there are signs that prohibit RV parking, if so, move on. Be prepared to be asked to leave during the night if you don't have prior permission. You might also be issued a citation by the local law.
(3) It's okay to open the slide-outs, but do not put down stabilizer legs, supports or jacks as they damage the asphalt parking lot surface.
(4) Never cook outside of your rig.
(5) Never put outside any chairs, or other personal belongings. Do not open your awning. In otherwords, the only thing you own that should be visible is the RV and the vehicle towing it.
(6) No loud music or tv. Try to be as quiet as possible.
(7) It's okay to use your generator in extremely short intervals. Never run it for more than absolutely necessary, and never after 10pm at night or before 8am in the morning.
(8) If traveling with children, do not let them run around and play in the parking lot.
(9) The dumping of ANY tanks in the parking lot is not okay. Report anyone who does to the store management right away.
(10) Don't unhook your tow vehicle or towed-vehicle and leave the RV. This is not a campgound. It is okay to unhook however, if you have repairs that need to be made to the tow vehicle and you are taking it to a local shop for the repairs. Put something under all your supports so they don't damage the parking lot surface. Discuss it with the store manager so that they know what is going on and they also may be able to direct you to a local reputable repair shop.
(11) Never do any repair work in the lot.
(12) Be good neighbors to the store. Purchase something during your time there.
(13) Never stay more than one night. Period.
If you have a reason that it's absolutely necessary, discuss it with the store manager.
(14) Leave the area cleaner than you found it. Do not dump your trash in Wal-Mart's outside garbage cans. Take your trash with you.
It all makes very good sense, doesn't it? We the RVers, should do everything possible so that Wal-Mart continues this gracious policy in towns where there aren't ordinances prohibiting it.