Jackson County, MS Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes (2026)

Jackson County classifies tiny homes based on construction type with different regulatory pathways. Foundation-built tiny homes are treated as single-family dwellings under the 2018 IRC and Jackson County Zoning Ordinance, requiring compliance with zoning minimum square footage - typically 600-800 square feet in unincorporated residential districts (varies by zoning classification). The 2018 IRC Appendix Q 'Tiny Houses' applies to dwellings 400 square feet or less and provides modified stair, loft, and ceiling height standards. Foundation tiny homes must meet full building codes including hurricane wind loads (140+ mph ASCE 7 for coastal Jackson County), FEMA flood zone elevation requirements (critical for properties in VE, AE, and A zones covering much of coastal Jackson County including Ocean Springs, Moss Point, and Pascagoula areas), and septic/well permitting through MSDH where public utilities are unavailable. Tiny homes on wheels (THOW) built on trailer chassis are classified as recreational vehicles (RVs) or manufactured homes under MS Code §75-49-1. RVs cannot be used as permanent residences in residential zones - occupancy is limited to licensed RV parks and campgrounds. Manufactured homes must meet HUD Code and can be placed on permitted lots meeting manufactured home zoning requirements. Jackson County has no adopted ADU ordinance specifically authorizing tiny homes as secondary dwellings on existing lots. Utility connections (water, sewer/septic, electrical) must meet full code. Some limited tiny home communities exist in Mississippi but Jackson County has no designated tiny home zoning overlay.