San Diego tiny homes are more than just a trendy fad. These tiny houses are becoming a practical solution for those seeking a more minimalist and eco-friendlier lifestyle. In the world of housing, tiny homes are shaking things up with their smaller footprints and lower costs of living. San Diego, a city known for its innovation and adaptability, isn’t one to be left behind. However, as new housing laws get released, locals are wondering if tiny houses are allowed in San Diego.
Today, we uncover the truth behind if tiny houses are allowed in San Diego, CA.
San Diego Tiny Home Rules
When it comes to the rules, San Diego has a well-thought-out approach toward tiny homes. Recognizing their potential to ease housing affordability concerns and provide diverse living options, the city has been quite open to this housing trend. Tiny homes are considered accessory dwelling units (ADUs), subject to specific requirements.
A building permit is non-negotiable, and the tiny house must adhere to certain size, design, and location regulations. The dwelling can’t be larger than 1200 square feet. It also must complement the design of the main property to ensure harmony within the neighborhood.
Regarding location, certain setback distances from property boundaries are required to ensure privacy and safety. As for utilities, connections must be planned with careful consideration of the infrastructure. All these rules can be found in greater detail on San Diego’s city website here. Updated tiny home rules can be found there.
Can You Put a Tiny Home on Your Property?
The answer is an enthusiastic yes! A tiny home can be an excellent addition to your property. However, you must stick to the tiny house regulations outlined by the city of San Diego. Tiny homes provide a ton of benefits to homeowners. For example, they offer a separate space for relatives that visit. Phew! You can finally get space from your mother-in-law when she visits. Tiny houses can also be used for passive income as a rental unit.
- If you plan to rent out your tiny home in San Diego on Airbnb, please check the short-term rental laws here.
Remember that a building permit is necessary before the construction or placement of a tiny home. San Diego encourages property owners to follow the guidelines. This not only helps for legal reasons but also helps maintain architectural harmony throughout each neighborhood.
Treat buying a tiny home like purchasing a regular property. If there were previous owners, get title insurance and do your due diligence. Just because the homes are tinier doesn’t mean the risk is.
Tiny Homes on Wheels are Allowed
What about life on the go with a tiny home on wheels? Good news for nomads, San Diego is one city that says yes to Tiny Homes on Wheels, or THOWs as they are often called. Like their stationary counterparts, they too are considered a type of ADU, which means they are subject to the same regulations regarding size, design, and location.
As long as your THOW meets these criteria, you’re good to roll! Imagine a dwelling that combines comfort, mobility, and sustainability, right here in San Diego. What’s more, these THOWs provide an excellent opportunity for those looking to experience the tiny house lifestyle without a significant commitment to a single location.
If you buy a tiny house on wheels, someone still pays the realtor involved in the transaction. Fortunately, it won’t cost as much as the average house in San Diego. You’ll save tons of money buying a tiny home instead of a single-family property.
Can You Live in a Tiny Home in San Diego
If tiny homes are allowed in San Diego now, can you live in one? Making a tiny home your permanent address is a big jump towards a minimalistic lifestyle. You’ll first need to sell your San Diego house and then purchase a tiny home.
For all those tiny home lovers, you can live in one as your primary residence in San Diego, California. As long as your tiny home complies with the city’s guidelines and regulations, you can confidently establish it as your full-time house.
The city encourages this trend as it offers a solution to housing affordability and promotes a more sustainable lifestyle. It is also a great option for those looking to downsize or lead a more minimalist lifestyle, without compromising on comfort and safety. Of course, make sure that you’re old enough to buy property when pursuing a tiny home to purchase. Typically, the age is 18 years old to buy a tiny home.
San Diego Tiny Homes are Back!
In case there was ever any doubt, tiny homes are making a big comeback in San Diego. This isn’t just anecdotal evidence either. The number of permitted tiny homes in San Diego has spiked dramatically over the past few years. People are getting more creative with tiny home designs that fit well with the city. San Diego is embracing this innovative housing trend as a promising solution to address diverse needs.
The tiny home movement offers affordability, potential for passive income, and a simpler lifestyle. That’s why tiny houses are allowed in San Diego. The city realizes how progressive tiny homes are. San Diego’s tiny home regulations are changing to ensure safety and neighborhood harmony.