📜 Tiny House Zoning and Planning Checklist

1. Classification & Minimum Size Requirements

The most significant hurdles for a tiny house zoning are its classification and size. You need to know exactly how your local jurisdiction will categorize your single-level home.

• What is the zoning designation for my specific property address (e.g., R-1 Single Family Residential, Agricultural, etc.)?
• Is a dwelling unit permitted on a property with this zoning?
• What is the Minimum Square Footage Law (MSFL) for a primary dwelling unit in this zone?
  • Note: If the MSFL is above your tiny home size (e.g., $900 \text{ sq ft}$), ask if an exception applies for tiny houses or if the jurisdiction has adopted Appendix Q of the International Residential Code (IRC).
• How are permanent tiny homes on foundations classified? (e.g., Single-Family Dwelling, Cottage Home, ADU).
• What is the minimum habitable room size and minimum ceiling height requirement?

2. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Rules

If you already have a home on your property, classifying your tiny house as an ADU is often the easiest legal path. Your tiny house bungalow would be considered a detached ADU.

• Are Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) permitted in my zoning district?
• Does the ADU have a minimum or maximum size requirement? (Often, ADUs are allowed to be smaller than the primary home).
• Does the ADU require owner-occupancy of either the primary dwelling or the ADU itself?
• What are the separation/setback requirements between the primary dwelling and the detached ADU?

3. Lot & Placement Requirements

These questions determine exactly where on your lot you can place your single-level tiny home.

• What are the required setbacks from all property lines (front, rear, and sides) for a detached structure?
• What is the maximum allowed lot coverage (percentage of the lot that can be covered by all structures, including the tiny house, garage, etc.)?
• What are the maximum height restrictions for a residential structure in this zone?
• Are there any specific parking requirements (e.g., how many off-street spaces must be provided for the tiny home)?

4. Permits & Inspections

Building a permanent, foundation-based structure requires permits and multiple inspections throughout the process.

• Which specific permits are required for a new residential build of this size? (Typically: Building Permit, Electrical Permit, Plumbing Permit).
• What type of foundation is required or approved for this structure (e.g., concrete slab, piers, crawlspace)?
• Which building code must the structure adhere to? (IRC, IBC, or a specific state/local code).
• What inspections are required and at which stages of construction (e.g., foundation, framing, rough-in plumbing/electrical, final inspection)?
• What documentation or sealed architectural plans must be submitted for permit review?

5. Utilities & Infrastructure

Confirming utility connections is essential, particularly for sites that may not have existing infrastructure.

• Is my lot currently connected to municipal sewer and water, or will I require private systems (septic and well)?
• If requiring private systems, what is the process/permit for a new septic system (percolation test requirements) and/or well installation?
• What are the requirements for electrical service connection (e.g., minimum amperage service)?
• Are there any restrictions on off-grid systems like solar panels, composting toilets, or rainwater collection?

6. Special Circumstances

Depending on your location, other overlay districts or special requirements may apply.

• Is the property located within any special overlay district (e.g., Historic Preservation, Flood Zone, Fire Hazard Area)?
• Are there any covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) that the city or county is aware of (especially common in HOAs or subdivisions)?
• What is the process and timeline for applying for a Minor Variance or Zoning Amendment if my planned tiny house bungalow does not meet one of the primary zoning requirements?