Cincinnati, OH Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes (2026)

Cincinnati adopted ADU regulations in Chapter 1421-06 of the Zoning Code, which provide the primary pathway for placing a tiny home on a residential lot. A tiny home intended as a dwelling unit must be permanently constructed on a foundation with permanent utility connections for water, sewer, and electricity. Mobile tiny homes built on trailers, RVs, and manufactured homes not set on permanent foundations are explicitly prohibited from being used as dwelling units in residential zoning districts. Detached ADUs on lots of 4,000 square feet or larger cannot occupy more than 15 percent of total lot area or 800 square feet, whichever is greater. The ADU must comply with height limits, setbacks, and design standards in Chapter 1421-06. A building permit is required, and the structure must meet Ohio Building Code or Ohio Residential Code standards for habitable space including minimum ceiling height, ventilation, egress windows, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and plumbing fixtures. Additional off-street parking is not required for an ADU. Owner occupancy of either the principal dwelling or the ADU is required. Short-term rental of the ADU is allowed under Chapter 856 provided the owner or responsible person occupies one of the units. Contact the Zoning Division at (513) 352-2430 or zoninginfo@cincinnati-oh.gov for pre-application guidance.