Tiny Home Regulations in Washington: The Complete Guide
Let’s be honest: housing prices are climbing steadily across the United States, making it increasingly difficult to find an affordable place to call home. As a result, many people are shifting towards simpler, minimalist lifestyles and tiny homes as a cost-effective way to achieve homeownership. Tiny homes aren’t just a passing trend—they are becoming a practical solution to the growing need for cost-effective housing in the country. In fact, many local governments are starting to recognize their potential.
If you’re in Washington and interested in exploring this budget-friendly way to own your first home, you’re in good company! This guide will provide everything you need to know about tiny home regulations in Washington and offer insights into the tiny home lifestyle.
Are Tiny Houses Legal in Washington?
Yes, Tiny homes are legal in Washington!
Recognizing the growing housing affordability challenges, Washington State lawmakers passed House Bill 5383 in 2019. This legislation established a formal definition for tiny houses and tasked the State Building Code Council with creating specific building codes to regulate them. As a result, Washington adopted Appendix Q of the 2018 International Residential Code, effective July 1, 2021, to set standards for tiny houses built on permanent foundations.
That said, the acceptance and governance of tiny homes differ across various localities. For example, King County requires tiny homes to be constructed on permanent foundations, whereas Woodland allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs) within the size range of 300 to 800 square feet.
For this reason, it’s essential to consult with local building departments to understand the unique rules and guidelines regarding tiny house dimensions, design, and features specific to your area.
To find out if tiny homes are allowed where you live, review the zoning regulations and building codes in your community. Since these rules can vary greatly, connecting with local authorities will help clarify whether tiny home living is a viable option in your region.
Are Park Models the Same Things As Tiny Homes?
Park models and tiny homes share similarities but differ in key ways. Park models, categorized as recreational vehicles (RVs), are typically 400 square feet or less and designed for seasonal or recreational use, often in campgrounds or vacation communities. They feature full kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces, giving them the appearance of small houses, but are intended for semi-permanent setups rather than frequent relocation. Tiny homes, on the other hand, are compact dwellings built for long-term or permanent living, focusing on efficient space use and sustainability. While they can be on wheels like park models, tiny homes often adhere to residential building codes or specific tiny home ordinances, making zoning more complex.
Tiny homes are ideal for year-round living on private land, while park models are better for temporary stays in designated areas. You can learn more about the differences between park models and tiny homes here if you’re interested!
What Counties in Washington Allow Park Model Tiny Homes?
In Washington State, the rules and regulations of tiny homes vary significantly across counties and municipalities, with local zoning laws and building codes playing pivotal roles. Here’s a list of counties:
Does Adams County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Adams County permits tiny homes. Tiny homes are allowed in Adams County, provided they meet specific requirements. Tiny homes must comply with the International Residential Code (IRC) and local building codes, including ventilation and ceiling height requirements. You need approval for your site layouts from the Board of County Commissioners, and tiny homeowners must have a Type B Bufferyard for screening. Washington’s Appendix AQ governs tiny homes of 400 square feet or less built on permanent foundations. Consulting a licensed architect, engineer, or contractor and reviewing the Tiny Houses Plan Checklist is recommended before beginning any work.
Does Asotin County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Asotin County permits tiny homes. All tiny homes must comply with the Washington State Building Code, including IRC, Plumbing, and the National Electrical Code. All on-site builds follow the same permitting process as single-family homes, and requirements may vary by location. ADUs can be built using modular, prefabricated, container, or stick-built designs. House Bill 1337, passed in 2023, allows up to two ADUs on a property without requiring the owner to reside there. For details, visit the Washington State Building Code Council website.
Does Benton County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Benton County allows tiny homes with certain restrictions. Tiny house communities are allowed in areas zoned R-3M Residential Manufactured Home Park District. A single accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is permitted per lot, provided it is no larger than 800 square feet or 40% of the main home’s size, includes one bedroom, has two off-street parking spaces, and is built on a permanent foundation. Temporary dwellings are also allowed if they meet regulations, are easily removable, and do not impact public health or safety. To get a tiny home approved, you must follow state guidelines, obtain necessary licenses, and secure local building permits for the foundation and placement.
Does Chelan County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Chelan County allows tiny houses as permanent dwellings. Tiny houses are regulated by the Washington State Residential Code (Appendix Q), which outlines specific building standards for tiny homes. Tiny houses on wheels built off-site require approval from Washington State Labor and Industries as Factory-Assembled Structures. Building standards include specific ceiling height requirements and mechanical ventilation. Tiny houses can be placed in tiny home communities, RV parks, campgrounds, national parks, and private properties. To get approval, you must review the tiny house information packet, submit three copies of your plans, and complete the Tiny House Plan Approval & Insignia Request form (F623-039-000).
Does Clallam County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Clallam County allows tiny homes or park models under special conditions. To place a tiny home in Clallam County, you must get a placement permit from the Department of Community Development (DCD). You need a site plan showing the tiny home’s location and distance from property lines. Other requirements might include proof of a septic system or sewer connection, a 911 address, a road approach permit, a drainage plan, and letters of approval from all property owners if the land is jointly owned. Your tiny home must undergo several inspections by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Once you complete and pass all inspections, you must get a certificate of occupancy or equivalent approval from the county.
Does Clark County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, in most urban zones, Clark County permits tiny homes, also known as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Most urban zones permit both attached and detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), while rural zones allow only attached ADUs, with some exceptions for temporary dwellings.
Does Columbia County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Columbia County, WA, recognizes tiny homes as a cost-effective and efficient housing solution, although the county’s codes don’t explicitly mention them. In Washington, tiny homes must comply with state regulations, including Appendix AQ, which covers homes on foundations of 400 square feet or smaller, and comply with the Washington State Building Code. Necessary permits must be obtained through the local building department and either the LNI or city electrical program. Tiny homes can be placed in RV parks, campgrounds, tiny home communities, or on private properties, provided they meet all applicable regulations.
Does Cowlitz County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are allowed in Cowlitz County, WA, but certain requirements apply. They must adhere to the International Building Code (IBC) and Appendix Q of the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC), which sets standards for tiny houses. Permits are required for the foundation, installation, and location, and additional steps may include registering as a contractor, hiring licensed professionals for plumbing and electrical work, and obtaining an L&I electrical permit. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are also permitted, up to 1,200 square feet, either attached to or separate from the main home. If using a well or septic system, consult the Environmental Health Unit.
Does Douglas County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Washington state allows tiny houses, including in Douglas County, under specific guidelines. The state’s building code includes Appendix AQ for tiny homes on foundations up to 400 square feet, which local jurisdictions must adopt. Tiny homes must comply with the IRC, Washington State Energy Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, and National Electrical Code. The approval process varies by location, and tiny homes built offsite require approval from Washington State Labor and Industries (L&I). L&I must also approve tiny homes on wheels as Factory-Assembled Structures.
Does Ferry County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are allowed in Ferry County, but specific guidelines must be followed. You’ll need permits from your local building department and the LNI or city electrical program. The tiny home must comply with zoning rules, and safe and legal transportation of the tiny house is your responsibility, including meeting size and weight limits. Additionally, you must complete forms like the Tiny House Plan Approval and Notification to the Local Enforcement Agency. For more details, review the tiny house information packet available through Washington State’s Labor & Industries website.
Does Franklin County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Franklin County, Washington, permits tiny homes if the site plan complies with zoning and mobile home park regulations. To build a tiny home in Washington State, ensure it aligns with the Washington State Building Code, obtain necessary permits from your local building department and the LNI electrical program, and handle transportation safely within legal size and weight limits. Review the tiny house information packet for offsite construction, complete the required forms, and submit them electronically to LNI. Tiny homes are defined as dwellings up to 400 square feet, featuring a kitchen, bathroom, and living/sleeping area.
Does Garfield County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Tiny homes are allowed in Garfield County, Washington. These homes are usually 400 square feet or smaller and can be built on a permanent foundation or set on wheels. You’ll need local building permits for the foundation, placement, and location. All tiny homes must comply with the Washington State Building Code.
Does Grant County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Grant County, Washington, permits both tiny homes on wheels and park models as permanent residences, given they meet specific criteria. Tiny homes and park models built and sold in Washington must display a state insignia to qualify. Homes built out of state may require additional approval. To install a tiny home, you’ll need permits from the building department for foundation, zoning compliance, installation, and an electrical connection permit from LNI or the city. Make sure the home is structurally sound for transport and adheres to size and weight regulations, consulting licensed professionals or state agencies as needed.
Does Grays Harbor County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes. Tiny houses are permitted in Grays Harbor County but must adhere to specific regulations. These homes must be 400 square feet or smaller and comply with the Washington State Building Code. The approval process depends on location, and you’ll need to submit plans, pay fees, and pass inspections, with L&I approval costing around $1,500 if completed successfully on the first attempt. Grays Harbor County also regulates accessory structures up to 800 square feet, which must be detached, single-story, non-habitable, and located on the same lot as an occupied residence. Utility structures up to 200 square feet can be built without a permit.
Does Island County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Island County, Washington, permits tiny homes, and its first tiny home village, Tiny Homes in the Name of Christ (THiNC), opened in Langley in June 2023. This village includes nine 264-square-foot cottages with charming details like front porches and flower boxes, built over five years with donations and volunteer support. Small dwelling units are allowed in some instances of the county but require a building or land use permit. Additionally, local governments cannot enforce specific restrictions on accessory dwelling units (ADUs), such as size, height, setbacks, yard coverage, or aesthetic requirements.
Does Jefferson County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Jefferson County, Washington, permits tiny homes, provided they meet specific requirements. They must have a permanent septic or sewer system and a reliable water source, be placed outside critical area buffers like streams or landslide zones, and meet the minimum setback rules of 5 feet. Tiny homes must align with the zoning rules for the parcel, which can be checked on the county’s interactive map. A building permit is also required, and further details can be obtained from the Building Plans Examiner at (360) 379-4461.
Does King County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, King County, Washington, permits tiny homes, provided they comply with specific requirements. These include adherence to building codes for health, safety, and energy efficiency, placement on a permanent foundation, and compliance with zoning regulations. Living spaces must be at least 70 square feet with a minimum of 7-foot ceilings, and a building permit with construction documents is required. Inspections by the Washington State Labor & Industries Department are mandatory, with approval costs starting around $1,500. Recognizing tiny homes as an affordable housing solution, the county complies with Senate Bill ESSB 5383, which allows movable tiny homes as primary residences in mobile home communities.
Does Klickitat County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Klickitat County, Washington, allows tiny homes under specific conditions. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as RVs and can only be used temporarily for up to 30 consecutive days or 60 days annually. Tiny homes can be used as permanent residences in a mobile home park, connected to utilities, and meet all other requirements. All tiny homes must meet the Washington State Building Code, have approved wastewater disposal and potable water systems, and receive Planning Department approval. Further details are available from the Klickitat County Building Department.
Does Lewis County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Lewis County permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs), including tiny homes, under specific conditions. ADUs must be under 1,296 square feet, with a maximum of two bedrooms, and located on the same lot as a single-family home. Proper permits, building code adherence, and compliance with water and septic requirements are necessary. Occupancy is limited to one family. ADUs are allowed in various zones, including Rural Development District and Small Town Residential, with additional restrictions in Crossroads Commercial zones.
For more information, please contact your local community development office at 360-740-1146.
Does Lincoln County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny houses are permitted in Lincoln County under specific regulations. The state adopted Appendix AQ Tiny House in 2021, which applies to homes 400 square feet or less on a foundation. Local adoption of the appendix and permits are needed for installation, location, and electrical connections. A site plan must show compliance with setback, utility, and parking requirements, and licensed professionals may be required for construction. Transport must comply with legal requirements, and it’s essential to consult the appropriate authorities. Contact the building division at (509) 725-7911 or the planning commission for detailed guidelines or exceptions.
Does Mason County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are allowed in Mason County, but approval can take 10–12 weeks or longer for additional reviews. Fees include a site review fee, 50% of the building permit fee, and the balance upon permit issuance. Homes must pass inspections by the Department of Labor & Industries (LNI), costing around $1,500 if approved on the first try. Licensing may require a general contractor, plumber, and electrician. Tiny homes are defined as dwellings under 400 square feet built according to the Washington State Building Code. For more information, please contact (360) 427-9670.
Does Okanogan County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny houses are allowed in Okanogan County, with specific requirements. They must be 400 sq. ft. or less, meet ceiling height and energy standards, and comply with zoning and setback rules. Permits include a Manufactured Home Installation Permit and a Fire Safety Permit from the state. Plans and forms must be submitted for approval, and inspection fees apply. Accessory structures must not exceed 24 ft. or the height of the main structure.
Does Pacific County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
No, tiny homes are not allowed in Pacific County due to zoning regulations, with a minimum dwelling size requirement of 410 square feet.
Does Pend Oreille County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, it appears they allow tiny houses. Contact their community development department for more information.
Does Pierce County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Pierce County, Washington, allows tiny homes. These homes must be less than 400 square feet (excluding lofts), built on a permanent foundation, and include essential features like a living space, kitchen, and bathroom. They must comply with the International Residential Code (IRC), and the approval process is similar to that for single-family homes. Some homeowner associations (HOAs) may have rules that prohibit tiny homes. To gain approval, you must submit detailed plans, complete the necessary forms, and allow several weeks for review. Additionally, the state permits tiny homes on wheels, also called “park model” RVs, which don’t require building permits but may need other permits.
Does San Juan County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, San Juan County, WA, allows tiny homes with specific conditions. Homes on trailers must meet state standards, while on-site builds require a county permit. Foundation-based tiny homes, classified as ADUs, must be on 5+ acre lots, under 1,000 sq. ft., within 100 ft. of the main house, and share utilities and a driveway. Manufactured homes and factory-built structures are not allowed. RVs can be occupied by owners and family for up to 180 days but cannot be rented. Tiny homes range from 100 to 700 sq. ft. and can be on foundations or trailers. For more information, please contact the building division at 360-378-2116.
Does Skagit County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Tiny homes are permitted in Skagit County under specific regulations. In Skagit County, larger accessory dwelling units (ADUs) up to 1,200 square feet are permitted in unincorporated areas. While most construction and the placement of mobile homes typically require building permits, park-model recreational vehicles under 400 square feet are generally exempt from this requirement. The state has implemented Appendix Q, Tiny Houses, which sets standards for tiny homes on permanent foundations that are 400 square feet or smaller. This includes requirements for minimum ceiling heights and mechanical ventilation. Local governments can adopt Appendix Q as a model code or approve tiny homes individually based on specific projects. For more information, please contact their planning and development services at 360-416-1320.
Does Skamania County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Tiny homes are allowed in Skamania County, but they must comply with specific regulations. They are required to meet the Washington State Building Code, and the approval process depends on the location of the tiny home. Permits are necessary from both the local building department and the LNI electrical program. Tiny homes on wheels are categorized as RVs and cannot be used as permanent residences. However, residents can apply for a temporary dwelling permit to live in an RV for more than 14 consecutive days or up to 120 days within a calendar year.
Skamania County also permits very small site-built or modular homes for permanent occupancy, provided they include at least one habitable room of 70 square feet. For more details, contact the building division at (509) 427-3925.
Does Snohomish County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny houses are allowed in Snohomish County, but must meet specific criteria. Land use approval is required, and the tiny house must be built on a foundation and connected to water and sewer utilities. A site plan must also be submitted, demonstrating compliance with setback rules, access, parking, and other regulations. Tiny houses on 400 square feet or smaller foundations fall under Washington state’s Appendix Q Tiny House code, which local jurisdictions may adopt as a model code. To receive approval, you must download and review the Tiny House information packet, submit three copies of your plans, and complete the Tiny House Plan Approval & Insignia Request form (F623-039-000).
Does Spokane County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Tiny homes appear to be permitted in Spokane County, as the City of Spokane has updated its building and zoning codes to accommodate them. Prospective homeowners should familiarize themselves with zoning regulations and ensure their tiny homes are in an urban growth area. For detailed information, please visit Spokane Building Codes and Ordinances or contact them at 509-477-3675.
Does Stevens County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Tiny homes are permitted in Stevens County, but specific permits and approvals are required. A building permit from the local building department is needed for installation, and you can consult the Stevens County office or the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) “Tiny House” page for details. You’ll need an electrical permit from L&I or your city’s electrical program to connect your tiny home to power. Additionally, city approval is required for the site plan and electrical, utility, and building permits. If your tiny home is constructed off-site, it must have Factory Assembled Structures (FAS) approval from L&I. Lastly, it must comply with local zoning regulations. For detailed information, please contact the building division at (509) 684-8325.
Does Thurston County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Tiny homes are allowed in Thurston County, but specific requirements must be met. The property’s zoning district is a key factor, as tiny homes must comply with county building and development regulations. These homes are defined as dwellings no larger than 400 square feet and must adhere to the Washington State Building Code. In some cases, tiny homes may require inspection and approval through the Factory Assembled Structures (FAS) program by the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), with inspection fees costing approximately $1,500 if everything is approved on the first attempt.
Additionally, Thurston County allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in rural unincorporated areas, provided density requirements are met. ADUs are smaller residences on the same property as a single-family home and can be attached or detached. Contact Thurston County Building Development Center at (360) 786-5490 for detailed information.
Does Wahkiakum County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny houses are permitted in Wahkiakum County, but only with a building permit. Washington state laws include Appendix AQ Tiny House, which applies to tiny houses on 400 square feet or less foundations, though local jurisdictions must adopt this appendix. Offsite-built tiny homes must be approved by the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), which involves reviewing the tiny house information packet, filling out the required forms, and submitting all necessary paperwork. Additionally, local cities and towns can create their own ordinances to regulate tiny house communities.
Does Walla Walla County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Walla Walla County allows tiny homes in the Neighborhood Residential Zone. The zoning code for this area permits various housing types, including tiny homes compatible with the neighborhood. Contact the Walla Walla County Community Development Department for more information about tiny homes and zoning regulations at (509) 524-261.
Does Whatcom County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Whatcom County allows tiny homes with some rules. Two types are allowed: site-built tiny homes, which are built on a permanent foundation and must comply with the International Residential Code (IRC), and manufactured tiny homes, which are made in factories, and certified by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I), classifying them as mobile homes. The county is also exploring zoning updates to make building tiny homes easier., including distinguishing between self-contained and non-self-contained units and treating site-built tiny homes as either standard houses or accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
Feel free to reach out to Whatcom County Planning and Development Services at (360) 778-5900 for assistance with zoning, permits, and other requirements for tiny homes.
Does Yakima County, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Yakima County allows tiny homes. They don’t allow park model tiny homes as permanent dwellings unless they are in a manufactured/mobile home community. You can contact their Building Division for more information about tiny homes, and to learn about any other restrictions and possible exceptions pertaining to your area.
Find Your Park Model Tiny Home Regulations in Washington by Municipality
Does Seattle, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are permitted in Seattle, Washington, and the city even has a few tiny home communities! Seattle has adopted the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) which includes guidelines that must be followed for tiny homes. If you’d like to get specific details about tiny home regulations in Seattle, it’s best that you get in touch with their Department of Construction and Inspections, as they will more than happily go over anything you need to know about their tiny home policies with you.
Does Spokane, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Spokane allows tiny homes! The city follows the International Residential Code (IRC), and has also taking actions in order to provide more affordable housing for citizens, including allowing more tiny homes in parts of the city. You can contact their Development Department to learn about the best place for you to put a tiny home, and what the exact guidelines are for tiny homes.
Does Tacoma, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes! You’re allowed to have a tiny home in Tacoma! In 2019, the city has made it much easier to build a tiny home in the city! The new regulations have sped up the process of building tiny homes. They do have to be built on your existing property as accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in most places, but perhaps the city has some areas where you can build them separately—likely in manufactured/mobile home parks.
To learn about their tiny home policies, make sure you contact the city’s Planning & Development Services Department, as they’ll be able to answer any of your tiny home-related questions.
Does Vancouver, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Vancouver does allow tiny homes, as long as you follow certain guidelines. The city permits tiny homes as ADUs on your property, but depending on where you are, you might have to get a permit from Clark County building authorities instead. You can contact their Community Development Department to learn whatever you need to know about their tiny home regulations, and then get a hold of their Permit Center to begin the process.
Does Bellevue, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Bellevue allows tiny homes as accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on your property. The size of your tiny home/ADU is limited to either 1,200 square feet, or 40% of the combined area of the ADU and your primary residence, whichever is larger. To get all of the fine details, give their Development Services Department a call.
Does Kent, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Kent does allow tiny homes as accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as an accessory to your existing property. Efforts in the city have been made to encourage tiny homes as an affordable housing option. Reach out to their Permit Center to learn about how you can get a permit for your tiny home in Kent!
Does Everett, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, the City of Everett allows tiny homes. In order to be able to permanently dwell in a tiny home here, it will need to be kept at a licensed manufactured/mobile home community and meet all of the building codes for tiny homes in the city. To learn about these codes, please contact their Planning and Permitting Division.
Does Renton, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are permitted in Renton, WA. The city has adopted the 2021 International Residential Code, including Appendix AQ, which outlines guidelines for tiny houses. You can contact their Community and Economic Development Department to learn more about tiny homes in Renton, or contact their Permit Services to apply for a permit.
Does Spokane Valley, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Spokane Valley allows tiny homes, given that they meet certain requirements. The city allows tiny homes in tiny home communities and manufactured/mobile home parks as long as they have their wheels removed and are placed on a permanent foundation. You should get in contact with their Planning and Zoning Division in order to learn about the rules and regulations for tiny homes, as well as any restrictions or exceptions that may apply in your area.
Does Federal Way, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Tiny homes are allowed in Federal Way as accessory dwelling units (ADUs). You can have one on your property as long as you adhere to the city building regulations for ADUs. To find out about the exact specifications for tiny homes in Federal Way, reach out to their Building Division and ask about what they require in order for you to have a tiny home.
Does Yakima, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, tiny homes are allowed as permanent residences in manufactured/mobile home parks in the city. They must be built according to the building codes, and be connected to utilities. To get a full run-down of the tiny home regulations in Yakima, contact the city’s Community Development Department.
Does Kirkland, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Kirkland does allow tiny homes in the city—however, your tiny home must be on your existing property as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) and follow the building codes. Remember to reach out to Kirkland’s Planning and Building Department to understand the laws and regulations regarding ADUs and tiny homes.
Does Bellingham, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Bellingham allows tiny homes in approved tiny home communities or manufactured/mobile home parks. You can learn about all of their requirements from Bellingham’s Planning and Community Development Department, and find out about how to get a permit for one from their Permit Center.
Does Auburn, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Auburn allows tiny homes, and has recently taken steps to make them a more viable housing option. You can have them in tiny home communities, manufactured/mobile home parks, and maybe outside of these communities as well, but we aren’t fully certain about that. To gain a complete understanding of the tiny home laws in Auburn, please reach out to their Building Services Division.
Does Kennewick, WA Allow Tiny Homes?
Yes, Kennewick does allow tiny homes, and already has a tiny home village meant for low income individuals and families. You can find out what you need to be able to have a tiny home in Kennewick from the Building Safety Division.
What Counties in Washington Don’t Allow Park Model Tiny Homes?
Currently, tiny homes are allowed all throughout Washington, except throughout the majority of Pacific County, where homes must have a minimum of 410 square feet.
Park Model Tiny Homes That Are Allowed in Washington
The A-Frame
The A-Frame Studio
The Alpine
Park Model Regulations in Washington
Can I Live in A Park Model Tiny Home in Washington?
Washington is quite a friendly state when it comes to tiny homes. Most counties allow tiny homes in one way or another, with the exception of Pacific County, where the minimum size for homes is 410 square feet, which is just shy of the standard for tiny homes. In other places, you might be able to have a tiny home on its own lot, as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), or in a mobile home park—it all depends on where you are in Washington.
Can Park Model Tiny Homes Be Used As An ADU in Washington?
Yes, many places in Washington allow tiny homes in the form of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). In many of the cities that allow tiny homes, this is the main form of tiny house that is allowed—an ADU on an existing property. No matter where you are, it’s always best to check with your local zoning/building authorities to learn whatever you want to know about the tiny home guidelines there.
Do You Need A Permit For Tiny Homes in Washington?
Yes—most counties and municipalities will require a building permit for a tiny home. Some cases might require a special permit, which may be more difficult to obtain depending on your situation. You can learn about tiny home permits in your area by reaching out to your local building department!
Are There Any Tiny Home Communities in Washington?
There are many different tiny home communities in Washington! Unfortunately, they don’t all have websites, and the websites that some of them do have, provide little to no information about them. Here’s one that we found with a strong and informative site:
Leavenworth Tiny House Village
Location: 20752 Chiwawa Loop RdLeavenworth, WA 98826
Situated in the Cascade Mountains, this tiny home village provides access to a wide range of activities throughout the year. Located near Leavenworth, the village offers onsite amenities like kayaking, paddle boating, and over seven miles of hiking trails. In the winter, guests can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and direct access to groomed snowmobile trails, with Stevens Pass Ski Resort just 29 miles away.
Nearby attractions include Lake Wenatchee, Fish Lake for ice fishing, and the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth, known for its seasonal festivals, shops, and German-inspired restaurants. This location is ideal for those looking to experience outdoor recreation and local culture in a convenient setting.
FAQs
How Much Does it Cost to Build a Tiny House in Washington?
The cost of building or purchasing a tiny home typically ranges from $30,000 to over $100,000, depending on various factors. Whether you choose to build it yourself or hire a professional, the total cost will depend on the features you select, the materials used, and any additional requirements such as permits or foundation work. Land costs can also play a significant role, as well as whether the home needs to meet specific zoning regulations.
To get a clear understanding of your total expenses, it’s important to identify the type of tiny home you want and the land where you plan to place it. Be sure to check with local authorities to learn about permitting costs and any additional requirements. If you’d like a detailed cost breakdown or a custom quote for a park model tiny home, we’re here to assist you!
How Small Does a House Have to Be to Be Considered a Tiny Home?
In Washington, many areas adhere to the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC), which defines tiny homes as being 400 square feet or less. However, regulations can vary depending on the location, and some areas may have different size requirements or additional guidelines. To ensure compliance, it’s always a good idea to consult your local building department to ensure you’re meeting the proper requirements in your area.
Is There A Minimum Size My Tiny Home Must Be In Washington?
Yes, a lot of Washington State has adopted the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC), which requires habitable rooms to have a minimum square footage of 70, but remember, this may not be the case in your area! Make sure you confirm with your local building department before starting your tiny home project!
Where is the Cheapest Place to Put a Tiny House in Washington?
The most affordable places to put a tiny home in Washington are typically in rural areas. Rural counties often have lower land costs compared to urban or suburban locations, making them an attractive option for tiny home living. Additionally, these areas may offer more flexibility in terms of zoning and regulations, which can make it easier to place a tiny home. However, it’s important to research local requirements, as some rural regions may still have specific rules about tiny homes, such as foundation requirements or permitting processes.
Can A Park Model Tiny Homes Have Multiple Bedrooms and Bathrooms?
Yes, they can! The 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) and similar standards allow for flexible minimum room sizes, making it possible to design tiny homes with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. If you’re curious about how this works, take a look at our park model options. Models like the Cascade, Pinecrest, Aspen, and Nook Family Park Models all feature two or more bedrooms, proving that tiny living doesn’t mean giving up the privacy and functionality of separate spaces. Tiny homes can be both compact and highly livable!
What Features Are Included In A Park Model Home From Zook Cabins?
Our park model tiny homes come with an exceptional variety of features—standard and add-ons! We offer our tiny homes in different styles, including a cozy rustic log cabin style, or, a modern, luxurious style—whatever floats your boat, surely we’ve got it! Additionally, most of our park models are around 400 square feet in size and come fully finished inside and out, decked with lights, sinks, toilets, shelves, cabinets, and more!
Are Park Model Tiny Homes A Good Investment?
Yes! We believe that tiny homes are an excellent investment! For anyone considering renting out a tiny home to others—this is a great idea! Tiny homes have seen huge success in the short-term rental market, including sites such as Airbnb! You can also check out how Bobby Lee and Andrew turned 11 Zook Cabins Park Models into a thriving RV camp. If you’d like to learn more about park models as rental properties, fill out the pro forma!