Where Are Tiny Homes Legal In USA?
Installing a tiny house on your property is definitely possible, but can pose a bit tricky. In fact, the THIA, Tiny Home Industry Association, actually works with states to help them understand that tiny houses can be legal, as long as you go about it the right way. And if they’re not currently legal in your state, the THIA will do everything they can to get that law changed.
What are some requirements for a tiny home to be legal?
First things first, if a tiny home resembles a trailer more than a standard home, legalization is highly unlikely. Your tiny home needs to look more like a standard home and act more like a standard home opposed to that of an RV. For example, minimum insulation levels have to be met. Why does this matter? Because the government will not legalize something that provides stability for a short term living scenario; they will only legalize a living area if it’s suitable for long-term inhibition.
What states are currently working on legalizing tiny homes?
The following states are in the process of making tiny houses on wheels legal:
- Colorado
- Florida
- Maine
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- North Carolina
- Oregon
- Texas
- Washington
As legalization continues to grow in different areas of the country, national standards start to develop and become more clear. If you need additional information about tiny homes in your living area, please visit this website and contact a member of the ARC team.
What is the setup cost for a tiny house?
Though costs may change from state to state, all legalization set up practices are quite similar to some degree. The following three points are relevant in all legal areas:
- Tiny houses must be set on an approved pad of sorts, like concrete, asphalt, flagstone, or compact stone.
- Tiny houses should be safely hooked to the main home’s water and sewer systems.
- Tiny houses must be skirted with hidden wheels.
The cost to meet these regulations will vary from state to state.
Is there a law that tiny houses must be tied down?
As of now, there is no law that a tiny house needs to be tied down. If you’re currently living in an earthquake or tornado risk area, it is wise to tie down the house or anchor it somehow.
How can you get a tiny house permit for your property?
If you’re living in an area where it’s legal to reside in a tiny home, all you need to do is hire an independent inspector to certify that your property meets the city ordinances.
Fortunately, you will not have to submit plans for the structure, only plans for the pad/service hookups. The actual structure, construction, and quality of the residence is not taken into consideration when requesting a permit.
Where can you start building your tiny house?
Before diving deep into the building plans, we suggest that you obtain all the correct information you need first. You must understand the laws and requirements before construction begins. If you have any questions or concerns whatsoever, or you simply would like to heed professional advice, call ARC Engineers, Inc. This team of grade-A experts have your back and they’ll help you out every step of the way so that you’re not left in the dark.
About ARC
ARC began at UC San Diego when a group of students that shared a common dream decided to open up an engineering firm. In the beginning, these professionals took on minor consulting projects, grading plans, foundation inspections, and storm water compliance packages. Due to their efficiency and fast delivery of projects, their customer clientele grew tenfold. In a matter of a few short years, they expanded, delivering Civil, Surveying, Construction Management, Structural, Architectural, and Geotechnical services.
One of the leading infrastructure engineering firms in Southern California today, with an intense ability to successfully deliver projects on time consistently.
