Top 5 Best States For Tiny Homes

In the past years, many Americans have adopted the idea of tiny homes. These are homes that are less than 400 square feet, a lifestyle that has picked up steam. Sustainable energy use and downsizing are among the top contributing factors. However, one aspect that is often overlooked is the legal component. If you are looking for the best states for tiny homes, here are some options to consider.

5.) California

In the US, more than 650,000 nationals live in inadequate shelters. A third of this number lives in California. Reports show that the homelessness crisis has been fueled by the quick rise of rent in the booming housing market. According to the data, California tops the list of the most homeless states in America.

Due to the crazy real estate market, the Golden State is the most popular spot for tiny houses in the US. Community organizers and lawmakers are on the forefront, advocating for the expansion of these modular homes. The State is attracting a large number of people looking to downsize. That’s because it allows them to choose between beach areas, the desert, the huge metro area and even around the mountain. However, not all counties allow these tiny houses. Los Angeles, San Diego and Fresno are the counties open to these construction projects. Be familiar with the regulations, such as the permits needed for registration. Choose a tiny home builder who understands the construction requirements and who will help you with the paperwork.

Understand that municipalities and counties determine the zoning laws of these houses. In 2020, the state updated its alternative dwelling unit laws (ADU). This allowed some of the cities to classify these tiny homes as backyard cottages. If you decide to put up one of them within your residence, a few factors will apply. For instance, what will be its primary use, and what do your local policies say? Fresno was the first city to permit homes on wheels as dwelling units within a zoned property. Here, these tiny dwellings must be between 100 and 400 square meters. Like San Luis Obispo, only one of these small dwellings is allowed within the primary property. If you prefer a rural location and still want to erect a small house, think about Humboldt County on California’s North Coast.

4.) Texas

Texas has no laws that govern tiny houses. However, there are laws specific to the location, design and size of the houses. The counties designed for tiny homes in this state include Brown, Medina, Lake Dallas, and Ellis. There is also Baylor County, but Seymour City does not allow these tiny dwellings. While there are no formal zoning laws in Houston, there have to be hallways and corridor ceilings above 7 feet. You will also need a tub, shower, toilet, water closet and bathrooms. The kitchen has to be 70 feet or more. In San Antonio, the International Residence Code (IRC) guidelines must be met before any small dwelling is put up. The home must sit on a 320 square feet space, the floor area has to be 150 square feet and the ceiling height must meet a minimum of 6’8”. Have an accredited tiny home builder work on your property to ensure you comply with the American National Safety Institute (ANSI) rules. Note that the location you choose for your tiny dwelling is important.

Some of the best places for these projects include campgrounds and national parks, RV parks, private properties and tiny house communities. Indigo River, for instance, is one of the largest communities in Texas. It holds over 2,000 tiny homes. Spur is the other perfect stop for these homes. It was the first city in Texas to open its doors to small homes. One of the top attractive aspects of this state is that you can live in a small home as your permanent residence. However, there are limitations. The foundation and the zoning rules must be followed. Since they also must be connected to the sewer lines and other utilities, involve a professional tiny home builder.

3.) Oregon

Oregon is the second most popular state in the United States, with tiny dwellings. However, there are cities that are more open to such houses than others. Lakeview, Portland, Monroe and Eugene are the cities you should look into. Several cities are not open to such houses, with Salem being the most unwelcoming. Salem has banned such houses. If you are thinking of building or buying a tiny dwelling in either city, begin by understanding the permits and regulations that apply. As long as the building codes and zoning laws are followed, homeowners are allowed to build a tiny home in their backyard. Oregon is a great state, but it can prove tough, especially for those not financially stable. Since these small homes are decent, safe and budget-friendly, they give people looking to downsize the perfect living space. Note: if your house does not comply with the set Oregon Small Home Specialty Code (OSHSC) regulations, you may face hefty fines. There is also the possibility of being evicted.

2.) Colorado

There are specific laws for tiny dwellings in Colorado. In most of the county, these houses are put into the same category as recreational dwellings or vans. In that case, owners of these tiny houses are expected to follow the local building regulations. With the cost of living in this state being high, the call for small homes came through to support those struggling financially. The aim of the movement was affordable housing. Walsenburg town, Salida, Park county, Denver, Aurora, Aspen, Boulder, Fort Collins, Escalante village in Durango, and El Paso county are among the most appropriate places for these houses. With the cliffs, mountains and many other natural mother nature details, these cities offer residents the secluded yet beautiful life most people look for. There are rules and regulations to be followed. If you decide to build yours on wheels, for example, that will be viewed as an RV, which means it can only be used for recreational activities or camping. You are not allowed to live permanently in these houses here. The rules also direct that each tiny home must be anywhere between 100 and 400 square feet.

1.) Florida

Widely known as the sunshine state, Florida boasts beautiful beaches and lovely little homes. Some of the most friendly cities for these tiny dwellings include Oviedo, Casselberry and Longwood in Seminole County. There is also Orlando and Winter Park in Orange County. Since Florida has a longstanding history of hurricanes, there is a chance that you will be expected to have your THOW fixed to the ground permanently. Understand that the size of your house will depend on the regulations of each county. Look into the county policies before erecting your little home. When it comes to moving into a tiny house, there are many options for you. While these five states are at the top of our list, there are more that are more open to such kind of housing. The most important thing is to focus on the housing regulations before moving in. A permanent foundation, for instance, may have different regulations from a home on wheels.

The best state for your tiny home fully depends on your preferences. What you must consider before then is the local zoning laws. Think also about factors, such as the cost of living and climate, when choosing your final state.