Target does not have a universal corporate policy permitting overnight parking; it is generally prohibited at most locations, especially in urban areas. Permission depends entirely on individual store management, local ordinances, and the specific parking lot's security situation. While a suburban store with a large lot might occasionally allow it, you should always assume it is not permitted unless you have obtained explicit prior authorization from that store's management.
The primary reason for the general prohibition is security and liability. High-traffic urban locations or stores in areas with higher incidents of loitering or crime will almost always enforce a strict no-overnight policy. Data from security incident reports at retail chains often cite unauthorized overnight parking as a complicating factor in property crimes. Local city ordinances also frequently ban sleeping in vehicles or overnight parking in commercial lots, which Target management must enforce.
If you are considering requesting permission, your approach matters. Do not simply park and hope for the best. Contact the store directly during daytime business hours and ask to speak with the store director or the manager on duty. Be prepared for a "no," which is the most common answer. If you receive a tentative yes, clarify the specific rules: which area of the lot to use, how many nights are allowed, and if you need to check in with security. Never assume permission at one Target applies to another.
For reliable overnight parking, you are better served by established locations that explicitly welcome it, such as certain Walmart stores, truck stops, Cracker Barrel restaurants, or campgrounds. Industry tracking suggests that while over 90% of Walmart locations traditionally allowed overnight RV parking, the comparable figure for Target is in the low single digits. Relying on Target for this purpose is not a viable travel strategy without confirmed, store-specific approval.
