The idea of living in a small house as part of downsizing one’s lifestyle started to emerge back in the 1970s. With the world’s economy experiencing a huge slump in the years 2007 – 2009, the small house movement began growing.  These days, people are rethinking what they value in life and are deciding to put more effort into strengthening their communities, healing the environment, spending time with their families, or saving money. (1)

ZONING LAWS A CHALLENGE

One of the biggest obstacles of the tiny house movement is the difficulty in finding a place to live in one. Zoning regulations specify minimum square footage for new construction on a foundation. Frequently, the distinction is made between small (400 to 1,000 sq ft), and tiny houses (less than 400 sq ft), with some as small as 80 square feet. Depending on how the house is registered (either as a permanent dwelling, RV, or mobile home), the building and zoning codes can vary from town to town. (2)

During the past couple of years, some states have modified their zoning laws to accommodate houses of 1000 sq ft or less. Since tiny houses are built to last as long as traditional homes, use traditional building techniques and materials, and are aesthetically similar to larger homes, they are held to local and state building codes.

Another option for tiny houses is to put them on wheels. The advantage being the ability to move the house from place to place according to individual lifestyles or needs. However, tiny houses on wheels are considered RVs and are not suitable for permanent residence, according to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. In addition, RV parks do not always allow tiny houses unless they meet the legal criteria required for RVs. For tiny houses on wheels, parking on one’s own land may be prohibited by local regulations against “camping.”  (2)

RENT OR BUY

Most tiny houses are considered too small for families. Renting a tiny house in a community is becoming popular, especially for singles, young professionals, and retirees who do not want to own. Monthly rents can approach those of renting an apartment.

The tiny house movement is becoming very popular in states with warmer weather such as Florida and California. There are tiny house villages where rentals of both units and lots are available. Typically if you own your own tiny house on wheels, you can bring it to one of these locations and rent a lot for a monthly fee. This fee usually includes water, garbage, sewer, and parking. You pay for power, internet, and renter’s insurance.

Tampa Bay ESCAPE Village Tiny House Community in Florida is just such a community. With only 10 units available for rent or purchase, they are full with a waiting list.  Houses come in a number of styles and sizes. Rentals run around $1000/month. House sales are just under $100,000 with an additional lot rental at $400-$600/month. (3)

HOPE FOR THE HOMELESS

With their low cost and relative ease of construction, tiny houses are being adopted as shelters for the homeless offering residents a transition towards self-sufficiency. (4)

Is there anything that a tiny home can’t do? As time goes on, I think we’ll find more and more ways these little abodes fit into many people’s lives.