What is the definition of a tiny house?

There is no industry standard definition of a tiny house. The term is used to describe a variety of dwelling types, and the permitting and inspection requirements differ for each type of tiny house, including:

  • Stick-built/traditional/site-constructed homes: A small home constructed entirely at the building site. Review BPC-021 Residential Building Permit for Projects that Require Plans for more information regarding Building Permit requirements.

  • Factory-Built Housing (commonly referred to as modular homes): Factory-built homes built to State Building Code standard that are transported to a permanent location for installation on a foundation. See Policy 4-0-9 for the permanent use of factory-built homes.

  • Manufactured Homes (commonly referred to as mobile homes): Homes built to federal code standard in a factory mounted on a non-removable steel chassis or frame. See Policy 4-0-10 for the permanent use of manufactured homes on private property. For the temporary use of manufactured homes, please see Policy 8-1-1.

  • Transportable Housing Units and Recreational Vehicles (RV): Travel trailers, motor homes, park model homes, truck campers, camping trailers, or any other housing on wheels. For information regarding the temporary use of these structures, please visit the review Policy 8-1-1 and visit the Tiny Houses page.