Tiny Home Regulations in Maryland: The Complete Guide
With the prices for housing & apartments becoming significantly more expensive every year, more and more people have started to look into affordable & sustainable options such as tiny homes.
Tiny homes have become a popular option over the years & but have left people with unanswered questions.
What are the Maryland tiny house laws?
What is classified as a tiny home in Maryland?
Does Maryland classify tiny homes & park models as the same thing?
But at the end of the day, who has the time to look into all this information? The answer is us!
We’re here to answer all your questions and more in this article!
Are tiny homes legal in Maryland?
Tiny homes are legal in the state of Maryland!
Although the Maryland tiny house laws & regulations do vary in each county & city. The state of Maryland has implemented the International Residential Code (IRC) which states clearly the guidelines a tiny home must adhere to.
The code states that to be classified as a tiny home your building must be a maximum of 400 square feet in size with a ceiling height of at least 6’8”. And even better all of our park model tiny homes meet these requirements.
Typically, tiny homes are 200 – 400 square feet in size, but in certain counties or cities, the local zoning ordinances & building codes might require tiny homes to meet certain standards. It is recommended to check with your local zoning department and get a precise answer from them.
Are Park Models the Same Thing As Tiny Homes?
The answer depends on the local zoning laws in your area.
Although they are very similar there are significant differences, in Maryland park model homes are classified as RV’s and follow the RV Industry association (RVIA) Standard.
Tiny homes on the other hand are not movable like RV’s and are usually placed on a permanent foundation, tiny homes adhere to the International Residential Code (IRC) instead of the RV Industry association (RVIA) Standards.
However, in some parts of Maryland, if the park model home is on a permanent foundation, it could be classified as a tiny home. Contact your local zoning & planning department for more info.
What Counties in MD Allow Tiny Homes?
All counties in Maryland allow tiny homes!
Although some may have different or more strict rules & regulations. Below is a list of all the counties & their regulations on tiny homes.
Make sure also to double check with your specific city/town zoning ordinance, as the laws & rules vary from each city/town. Click on the county name to learn about the laws & regulations in that area!
Does Allegany County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are permitted in Allegany County. The state of Maryland has implemented the International Residential Code (IRC), which Allegany County adheres to. According to the regulations stated in the IRC, your tiny home must be no larger than 400 square feet in size and requires a ceiling height of at least 6’8”.
In order to receive the certificate of occupancy, you must ensure you secure building permits & pass all required inspections. Beware that each town or city in the county might have different zoning requirements, be sure to check with your local zoning department for more information.
Does Anne Arundel County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes Anne Arundel County does allow tiny homes, however some parts of the county might have stricter regulations. The county does follow the International Residential Code (IRC), which means in most parts of the county your home must meet the sizing standards.
Your tiny home can’t be larger than 400 square feet in size & needs to have a minimum ceiling height of 6’8”. You will need to acquire a building permit & pass all inspections in order to qualify for a certificate of occupancy.
Keep in mind that some parts of the county might have stricter zoning regulations regarding where you can place your home & for how long. Please check with your local zoning board for more information.
Does Baltimore County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are legal in Baltimore County.
The county adheres to the International Residential Code (IRC) which the state of Maryland has implemented. According to the code, your home must be 400 square feet or smaller in size & should have a ceiling height of 6’8”. In order to secure the certificate of occupancy you must ensure you pass all inspections & secure the building permit. Make sure to check with your local zoning board in your area to get more information regarding tiny home laws.
Does Calvert County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Calvert County does permit the use of tiny homes. The county follows the rules & regulations set in place by the International Residential Code (IRC), which the state of Maryland has mandated.
In order to live in a tiny home in Calvert County, you must ensure your home is 400 square feet in size or smaller, along with a ceiling height of 6’8”. You are required to have a building permit & pass all necessary inspections in order to receive the certificate of occupancy. You will need to double check with your local zoning board regarding in which areas you’re allowed to build a tiny home as each town/city has different requirements.
Does Caroline County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Caroline County follows the state wide rules set forth by the International Residential Code (IRC). According to the rules your tiny home can not be larger than 400 square feet in size & is required to be at least 6’8” in ceiling height. Your home must pass all required inspections & needs to have a building permit in order to receive the certificate of occupancy. Some areas in this county might have stricter requirements so please be sure to check with your local zoning board for more information.
Does Carroll County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are legal in Carroll County. The county adheres to International Residential Code (IRC), which means in order to build a tiny home here you must follow the following sizing requirements. Your home can not be any bigger than 400 square feet in size & must have a minimum ceiling height of 6’8”. To receive the certificate of occupancy you must ensure the home passes all inspections & has acquired a building permit. Please be aware that some areas in the county might have more stringent requirements so be sure to check with your local zoning board for more information.
Does Cecil County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are fully legal in Cecil County. The county follows the state-wide International Residential Code (IRC). It’s stated in the code that your tiny home can’t exceed 400 square feet in size & needs to have a ceiling height of at least 6’8.
The state requires your house to have a building permit & the house must pass all inspections. Afterward you will receive the certificate of occupancy. Be sure to check with your local zoning board regarding the location of your tiny home as some cities or towns might be more strict than others.
Does Charles County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, In Charles County tiny homes are allowed. Charles County has implemented the rules & regulations in the International Residential Code. According to the IRC your tiny home must be no bigger than 400 square feet in size, and needs to have a ceiling height of 6’8”.
The home is required to have a building permit & must pass all inspections in order to qualify for certificate of occupancy. Always double check your local zoning laws in your town as some regions may have more restrictions.
Does Dorchester County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Pima county allows tiny homes as long the house follows the rules & regulations of the International Residential Code (IRC). The tiny homes must have a minimum of 200 square feet & maximum of 400 square feet of living space.
The home must have a certificate of occupancy which is obtained by passing all inspections & acquiring a building permit. Beware that each town or city in the county might have different zoning requirements, be sure to check with your local zoning department for more information.
Does Frederick County, MD, Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, in Frederick County, tiny homes are legal. The county has adopted the International Residential Code (IRC). It’s stated that your tiny home be larger than 400 square feet in size & must have a ceiling height of 6’8” or more. In order to qualify for a certificate of occupancy the home must secure a building permit along with passing all inspections. Be sure to check the local zoning laws in your area as some cities or towns in the county might have stricter laws regarding the location of your home. Contact your local zoning & planning department for more information.
Does Garrett County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Garret County is one of the most lenient counties in Maryland when it comes to tiny home laws. Garret County adheres to the statewide regulations of the International Residential Code (IRC). In order to build a tiny home in Garrett County you must meet the sizing requirements.
The house can not exceed 400 square feet in size & needs to have a minimum ceiling height of 6’8”. Building permits are also required before construction begins, and all inspections must be passed. Afterwards you will receive the certificate of occupancy & will be able to reside in your tiny home.
Although Garret County is lenient towards tiny homes, it’s still recommended to check the local zoning ordinances in your area as some cities and towns might have more restrictive regulations. Contact your local zoning & planning department for more information.
Does Harford County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Harford County permits the use of tiny homes. The county observes the guidelines set up by the International Residential Code (IRC) which states that each tiny home is restricted to a size of 400 square feet or less, along with a minimum ceiling height of 6’8”.
Obtaining a building permit is required along with successfully passing all inspections so you can be eligible for a certificate of occupancy. Be sure to check with your local zoning board regarding the location of your tiny home as some cities or towns might be more strict than others.
Does Kent County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Kent County complies to the regulations established by the International Residential Code (IRC). It’s stated that tiny homes are limited to a maximum of 400 square feet & a ceiling height of at least 6’8”.
You will be issued a certificate of occupancy once you obtain a building permit & pass all the necessary inspections. You will need to double check with your local zoning board regarding in which areas you’re allowed to build a tiny home as each town/city has different requirements.
Does Montgomery County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Montgomery County allows the use & occupancy of tiny homes. The county abides by the rules & regulations set in place by the International Residential Code (IRC).
This means that tiny homes are limited to a maximum of 400 square feet in size & are required to have a ceiling height of 6’8” or more. In order to start construction, you must have the proper building permits & afterward, the home has to pass all inspections. When the process is done you will be issued a certificate of occupancy.
Keep in mind that some parts of the county might have stricter zoning regulations regarding where you can place your home & for how long. Please check with your local zoning board for more information.
Does Prince George’s County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Prince George’s County allows tiny homes. The county adheres to the International Residential Code (IRC), which means in order to build a tiny home here, you must follow the following sizing requirements. Your home can not be any bigger than 400 square feet in size & must have a minimum ceiling height of 6’8”.
To receive the certificate of occupancy, you must ensure the home passes all inspections & has acquired a building permit. Please be aware that some areas in the county might have more stringent requirements, so be sure to check with your local zoning board for more information.
Does Queen Anne’s County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Tiny Homes are legal in Queen Anne’s County. The state of Maryland has implemented the International Residential Code (IRC), which Queen Anne’s County adheres to. According to the regulations stated in the IRC, your tiny home must be no larger than 400 square feet in size and requires a ceiling height of at least 6’8”.
In order to receive the certificate of occupancy, you must ensure you secure building permits & pass all required inspections. Beware that each town or city in the county might have different zoning requirements, be sure to check with your local zoning department for more information.
Does St. Mary’s County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are legal & allowed in St. Mary’s County. The county adheres to the rules & regulations set forth by the International Residential Code (IRC), which states that tiny homes can exceed the maximum size of 400 square feet & are required to have a ceiling height of at least 6’8”. In order to start construction you must have the proper building permits & afterwards the home has to pass all inspections.
When the process is done, you will be issued a certificate of occupancy. Keep in mind that some parts of the county might have stricter zoning regulations regarding where you can place your home & for how long. Please check with your local zoning board for more information.
Does Somerset County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Somerset County permits the use & living of tiny homes. The county follows the rules & regulations set in place by the International Residential Code (IRC), which the state of Maryland has mandated.
In order to live in a tiny home in Somerset County, you must ensure your home is 400 square feet in size or smaller, along with a ceiling height of 6’8”. You are required to have a building permit & pass all necessary inspections in order to receive the certificate of occupancy. You will need to double-check with your local zoning board regarding in which areas you’re allowed to build a tiny home, as each town/city has different requirements.
Does Talbot County, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are legal in Talbot County. The county adheres to the International Residential Code (IRC), which means in order to build a tiny home here, you must follow the following sizing requirements. Your home can not be any bigger than 400 square feet in size & must have a minimum ceiling height of 6’8”.
To receive the certificate of occupancy, you must ensure the home passes all inspections & has acquired a building permit. Please be aware that some areas in the county might have more stringent requirements, so be sure to check with your local zoning board for more information.
Does Washington County, MD, Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Washington County follows the state-wide rules set forth by the International Residential Code (IRC). According to the rules, your tiny home can not be larger than 400 square feet in size & is required to be at least 6’8” in ceiling height.
Your home must pass all required inspections & needs to have a building permit in order to receive the certificate of occupancy. Some areas in this county might have stricter requirements so please be sure to check with your local zoning board for more information.
Does Wicomico County, MD, Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are legal in Wicomico County. The county adheres to the International Residential Code (IRC), which the state of Maryland has implemented. According to the code, your home must be 400 square feet or smaller in size & should have a ceiling height of 6’8”.
In order to secure the certificate of occupancy you must ensure you pass all inspections & secure the building permit. Make sure to check with your local zoning board in your area to get more information regarding tiny home laws.
Does Worcester County, MD, Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are allowed in Worcester County. Your home must comply with the International Residential Code (IRC), which means that your home can not exceed 400 square feet in size & must meet the minimum ceiling height of 6’8”.
You will also need a building permit & must ensure the home passes all inspections in order to receive a certificate of occupancy. Be sure to check your local zoning ordinances in your area, as some cities & towns have more strict laws set in place. Contact your local zoning board for more information regarding that.
Find Your Tiny Home Regulations in MD by City
Click On One Of The Cities Below To Learn More About Their Laws & Regulations.
Does Annapolis, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are allowed in Annapolis, MD. The city of Annapolis abides by the International Residential Code (IRC). According to the IRC tiny homes must meet certain sizing requirements, your home can not exceed 400 square feet in size & must have a ceiling height of at least 6’8″. In order to qualify for a certificate of occupancy you must obtain the required building permits and pass all inspections. Be aware that Annapolis is a big city and some parts of the city will have stricter regulations for tiny homes. Research your local zoning ordinances to find locations in which tiny homes are allowed. Contact your local zoning & planning department for more information.
Does Baltimore City, MD, Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes. However, the zoning laws are very strict in the city, and finding a place for your tiny home is very challenging due to the laws.
Baltimore City adheres to the state-wide International Residential Code (IRC), which means your tiny home can’t be larger than 400 square feet in size & is required to have a ceiling height of at least 6 ‘8″. Acquiring a building permit is necessary, along with passing all inspections so you can secure a certificate of occupancy.
In order to find out the zoning regulations, you will need to contact your local zoning board and ask for more information regarding where you can have a tiny home, as Baltimore City has very strict laws.
Does Silver Spring, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Silver Spring allows the use & occupancy of tiny homes.
The city of Silver Spring complies with the rules established by the International Residential Code (IRC). According to the regulations stated in the IRC, tiny homes are allowed to have a maximum size of 400 square feet along with having a ceiling height of 6’8” or more.
You will need to obtain a building permit & ensure the home passes all inspections, afterwards you will receive a certificate of occupancy. Double-check the local zoning ordinances in your area, as cities usually have more strict laws regarding the location of tiny homes. Reach out to your local zoning & planning department for more information.
Does Rockville, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes they do, tiny homes are legal in Rockville. The city follows the state wide rules that have been set forth by the International Residential Code (IRC). Tiny homes here can not exceed 400 square feet in size & must have a ceiling height of 6’8” or more.
You will need to secure a building permit & afterward, your house has to pass all inspections in order to receive a certificate of occupancy. Some parts of the city will have stricter regulations for tiny homes. Research your local zoning ordinances to find areas in the city where tiny homes are allowed.
Contact your local zoning & planning department for more information.
Does Gaithersburg, MD Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Gaithersburg allows the use & occupancy of tiny homes. Gaithersburg adheres to the International Residential Code (IRC), which means that the maximum size is restricted to 400 square feet and the minimum ceiling height is 6’8”.
In order to reside in your tiny home you must secure a certificate of occupancy which is done by obtaining all necessary building permits & passing all required inspections. Although tiny homes are legal in Gaithersburg doesn’t mean that you can build it anywhere.
You will have to check with your local zoning board to see if the area you’d like to build on is allowed. Some areas in the city have more strict laws & regulations than others.
Maryland Tiny House Laws
Can I live In a Park Model Home In MD?
Yes, it may be possible to live in a park model home full-time. However, this greatly depends on the zoning regulations, as in some areas, you may only live in a park model temporarily & for seasonal use.
- Zoning and Regulations: Check the local zoning ordinances in your area & find out whether they allow full-time residency. Park model homes are classified as RV’s so they are subject to different laws and regulations than traditional homes.
- Permits: You are required to title & register your park model home before you can move it or reside in it as it’s categorized as an RV. Keep in mind that a building permit might be required for a park model home in some areas of the state.
- Inspection Requirements: Your park model home will need to be inspected before it’s approved for occupancy. Inspections include things such as construction & safety standards along with essential inspections such as the foundation, structure, electrical, & plumbing inspections,
- Utility Connections: Ensure that water, electricity, & sewage utilities can be connected to your home. Some communities & RV parks offer these connections & amenities. Otherwise, you must verify these services are available on your private land.
What Counties in MD Do Not Allow Tiny Homes?
In Maryland all counties allow the use of tiny homes, there is no rule set in place that prohibits the use of tiny homes. Although some counties might have strict rules in place, you are still allowed to build a tiny home in most areas. To get more information, reach out to your local zoning & planning department in your area.
General Notes to keep in mind
Building Codes: Tiny homes must follow the regulations & rules set in place by the International Residential Code (IRC) & your local zoning ordinances. This means your tiny home must meet requirements such as: Size of home, ceiling height, and emergency exits.
Zoning: Varies greatly. Some cities & counties allow them as ADUs in single-family residential zones. Some may restrict them to areas such as RV parks. You will need to check with your city’s zoning & building department.
Permits and Inspections: Your tiny home must pass all inspections & needs to secure building permits in order to obtain a certificate of occupancy.
Are There Tiny Home Communities in MD?
Yes! There’s a few known tiny home communities in Maryland. Living amongst one of these communities has many benefits & perks. If you’re new to tiny home living you’ll enjoy the support & help that’s close to you if ever needed, plus there’s amenities that are offered in tiny home communities! Below Is a list of the few tiny home communities in Maryland.
Blue Moon Rising
Location: McHenry, Maryland
Blue Moon Rising is a beautiful community committed to sustainable living in the beautiful mountains of Garret County. It was founded to promote tiny home living sustainably with a focus on eco-consciousness. The community offers 15 unique tiny homes that have been built with sustainable materials that focus energy efficiency. Blue Moon Rising residents strive for a simpler & stress free lifestyle that focuses on community living values!
Liberty Village
Located: Union Bridge, Maryland
Liberty Village is another community dedicated to co-housing & tiny home living, it’s perfect for anyone interested in the tiny house lifestyle as they offer a supportive & like minded community. Residents can live in their tiny homes on individual lots that are equipped with amenities like water, sewage, & electricity. The community also offers shared spaces such as gardens, communal areas, & recreational facilities. This beautiful community brings people together who have a passion for tiny home & community living, you can connect with like minded individuals & live a lifestyle that’s dedicated to sustainability!
Maryland RV & Park Model Home Parks
Various Locations
Throughout Maryland, many RV parks and campgrounds make space for Park Model Homes. Most provide community activities, and many of the amenities available to residents make them very convenient and well-suited for Park Model Home living. Examples: Ramblin’ Pines Family Cherry Hill Park, Bar Harbor RV Park and Marina, Bumblebee RV Park & Campground, & Sun Outdoors Frontier Town.
Benefits Of Living in the Communities:
Affordability: Tiny Home Communities often have affordable housing options which are economically viable compared to the cost of living in a major city where you’re burdened with bills.
Sustainability: Tiny Home Communities are dedicated to a sustainable lifestyle. Residents strive for environment-friendly living, taking measures to cut down on their carbon footprint by using renewable energy, minimizing waste, & utilizing sustainable materials.
Community Living: Unless you wish to live in solitude, community living is a major benefit. You have like minded individuals all around you to socialize with & engage in outdoor activities. Many of the communities offer gardens, recreational facilities, & communal areas!
Simplicity: When you live in a tiny home or a park model home you have a more simplified life, there’s less to clean, less clutter, & less chores. This results in a life with less stress & more fulfillment as you have much more time to do the things you enjoy!
Maryland Tiny House Laws FAQs
How Much Does it Cost to Build a Tiny House in MD?
In Maryland the prices for tiny homes vary, but the usual range is between $30,000 to $60,000. If you’re looking for more modern & luxury homes the price does increase to around $80,000 to $100,000. If you would like a more in-depth look at the pricing options you can check out this article which offers a cost breakdown for one of our Park Model Homes. Feel free to reach out & request a free quote on a tiny home today.
Can A Park Model Tiny Homes Have Multiple Bedrooms and Bathrooms?
Of course they can! Park model homes are absolutely allowed to have multiple bedrooms & bathrooms. However, as you can guess it really depends on the size of your tiny home as there would be restrictions on the number of bedrooms & bathrooms depending on how big the house is. Usually tiny homes are no bigger than 400 square feet, creative design solutions are needed to make them fit into that kind of space. At Zook Cabins we do offer multiple park model homes that have 2 bedrooms! We offer the “Nook Family Park Model Home” & “The Cascade Park Model Home” both come with 2 bedrooms & plenty of living space
What Features Are Included In A Park Model Home From Zook Cabins?
Our park model homes are packed with unique features & a beautiful design. We offer multiple unique park model styles; whether you’re looking for a cozy & classic rustic cabin or a more modern & luxurious cabin, we have it all!
Each park model is usually around 400 square feet and comes fully equipped! Including light fixtures, faucets, toilet, cabinets, shelving & more! Our park models feature durable, weather-resistant material & beautiful designs!
Discover Our Unique Park Model Homes
Customization:
- From 10 selections to choose from, you’ll find one that catches your eye. Get to design your home, from floor plans to interior design. You have the freedom to create a home that suits your preferences!
Size and Features:
- Each of our Park Model Homes ranges from 204 square feet to 400 square feet, providing a cozy and comfortable space
- We finish each home with high-quality furnishings, including essentials such as a toilet, faucets, shelving, light fixtures and more.
Variety of Styles:
- Choose from a unique selection of style; whether it’s a charming rustic home or a more modern & luxurious home, we have it all. You’ll find a Park Model Home that fits your aesthetic preferences.
How Small Does a building need to be considered a tiny home?
The minimum size for tiny homes in Maryland varies, it depends on the area. However, according to the International Residential Code (IRC) which the state of Maryland adheres to says that the minimum square footage for a house is at least 120 square feet.
In certain areas, the zoning ordinances could be different. Contact your local zoning board for information. To find an area that is more friendly towards tiny homes, research counties with no minimum square footage requirement.
What Is The Cheapest Place To Put A Tiny Home In Maryland?
It’s a complicated question, but overall rural areas in Maryland are most likely the most affordable place to have a tiny home. To find the most affordable place for your tiny home you will need to look at land costs, availability of utilities & long-term costs of utilities, zoning regulations, permit & inspection costs, & lastly, if there are any community amenities. We have found that the best & cheapest options are often found in rural areas & certain tiny home communities.
What Size Must A House Be To Qualify As A Tiny Home?
These are the following size requirements for tiny homes in Maryland
Maximum square footage:
A maximum of 400 square feet is the rule for a tiny home
Floor space:
A minimum of 70 square feet of floor space and a minimum of 7 feet of width
Rooms:
A minimum of 50 square feet of floor area for any room
Ceiling height:
A minimum of 6’8″ for habitable space and hallways and a minimum of 6’4″ for bathrooms, toilet rooms, and kitchens
Lofts:
A minimum area of 35 square feet and a minimum dimension of 5 feet in any horizontal dimension
Are Park Model Tiny Homes A Good Investment?
Absolutely! Many of our clients have successfully rented out their properties, and the short-term rental market continues to soar with no signs of slowing down. There’s never been a better time to invest in real estate. Our clients have seen great success renting their custom-built cabins on platforms like Airbnb and other popular hosting sites.
For instance, Bobby Lee and Andrew transformed 11 Park Model houses into a thriving RV camp, showcasing the incredible potential of this investment. If you’re considering entering the real estate market, now is the perfect time to explore the possibilities.
What are utility bills like in a tiny house?
Utility bills in a tiny home are a fraction of the price compared to traditional homes & apartments due to the size difference & efficient use of amenities. Usually, the utility bills are around 50$ a month for most tiny home residents! This is an amazing option if you’re looking to reduce your expenses & live a sustainable lifestyle.
Is living in a tiny house comfortable and practical?
For the most part, yes! It entirely depends on your personal preferences. If you find an efficient & cluster free design you can make your home comfortable & practical in a way that suits you! Many tiny home residents say the key is to prioritize storage management & get useful furnishings to help with the functionality.
