Free Tiny House Zoning Finder
Search comprehensive zoning regulations across 23 U.S. states with detailed county-by-county data. Research ADU laws, building codes, and tiny house on wheels restrictions before you build or buy.
Search by State
Select a state to view detailed zoning regulations, ADU laws, and tiny house building codes.
What You'll Find
Select a state above to view comprehensive zoning information including ADU regulations, tiny house on wheels classifications, Appendix Q adoption status, and county-by-county building code details. Each state profile includes specific next steps and links to local resources.
State-Level Overview
- Statewide ADU and accessory dwelling policies
- Tiny house on wheels legal classification
- IRC Appendix Q adoption status
- General regulatory framework
Next Steps Guidance
- County-by-county regulation details
- Local planning department contact info
- Permit and utility requirements
- Local builder recommendations
Understanding Tiny House Zoning
Foundation vs. Wheels
Foundation-built tiny houses (120-400 sq ft) are regulated as dwellings under building codes. Many jurisdictions allow them through Appendix Q standards or ADU regulations. Tiny houses on wheels are classified as RVs with more restrictive residential use limitations.
ADU Regulations
Accessory Dwelling Units provide the clearest legal pathway for tiny houses. ADU laws specify size limits (typically 400-1,200 sq ft), setback requirements, parking rules, and occupancy restrictions. States like California mandate statewide ADU allowance.
Appendix Q Standards
IRC Appendix Q establishes building standards for 120-400 sq ft tiny houses on permanent foundations. It provides modified ceiling heights, loft requirements, and egress standards. Local jurisdictions must adopt Appendix Q for it to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a tiny house on a foundation versus on wheels?
A tiny house on a foundation is legally considered "real estate" and is subject to local building codes (like the IRC). A Tiny House on Wheels (THOW) is typically classified as personal property or a Recreational Vehicle (RV), meaning it is subject to DMV registration and entirely different (often stricter) zoning laws regarding full-time habitation.
How do Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) laws affect tiny house placement?
ADU laws allow homeowners to place a secondary, smaller dwelling on a lot that already has a primary house. In states with progressive ADU laws, this provides a legal loophole to place a foundation-based tiny home (and in some progressive cities, a THOW) in a standard residential backyard legally.
What is IRC Appendix Q and why does it matter for tiny houses?
The International Residential Code (IRC) dictates how homes must be built. Appendix Q is a special addition to the code specifically written for houses under 400 square feet. It relaxes standard rules—allowing for steeper stairs, lower ceilings in lofts, and specific egress windows—making legal tiny house construction possible.
What permits and approvals are required to place a tiny house?
For a foundation home, you generally need a building permit, electrical/plumbing permits, and a certificate of occupancy. For a THOW, you typically need an RVIA or NOAH certification, plus local zoning approval (like a conditional use permit) depending on where you park it.
Can I legally live in a tiny house on wheels full-time?
This heavily depends on the municipality. Many cities classify THOWs as RVs and enforce "camping" ordinances that limit stays to 30-180 days. However, more progressive cities (like Los Angeles, CA and Portland, OR) now allow THOWs to be utilized as full-time Movable ADUs.
Which states have the most favorable tiny house regulations?
California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, and Maine are widely considered the most friendly, having adopted statewide ADU legislation, movable ADU allowances, or widespread Appendix Q adoption.
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