Do tiny houses have to be on wheels? This is a frequent question I receive and I wanted to make sure the answer was here on the blog so those looking for it have the answer.
Tiny houses do not have to be on wheels, but there are several factors to consider when deciding between a tiny house on wheels or on a foundation:
- Mobility: The primary advantage of building a tiny house on wheels is mobility. It allows you to relocate your home if needed, though moving a tiny house is not as simple as towing a small trailer.
- Building codes: Tiny houses on wheels are often not subject to building codes in many locations, as they are not legally considered structures. This can provide more flexibility in design and construction.
- Zoning regulations: Tiny houses on wheels may fall into a legal gray area in some jurisdictions. They are often considered RVs, which can limit where and how long you can live in them.
- Size restrictions: Tiny houses on wheels must comply with road regulations, typically limiting their height to 13.5 feet and width to 8.3 feet.
- Foundation options: Tiny houses can be built on permanent foundations as well. This may make them subject to local building codes and zoning laws, but can provide more stability and potentially easier compliance with local regulations.
- Legal status: Some areas are becoming more accepting of tiny houses. For example, in Wisconsin, tiny houses on wheels that are no more than 150 square feet are defined as “portable shelters” in Madison.
- Location flexibility: Tiny houses on foundations may have more options for placement within city limits, while those on wheels might need to be located outside city limits or in specific designated areas.
Ultimately, the choice between wheels or a foundation depends on your specific needs, local regulations, and how you plan to use your tiny house. It’s important to research the laws and regulations in your specific area before making a decision.
Photos via Tiny House Marketplace
