Haltom City, TX Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes (2026)

Haltom City distinguishes between tiny houses built on permanent foundations (site-built or HUD-certified manufactured homes) and tiny houses on wheels (THOW). A tiny home on a permanent foundation must comply with the International Residential Code including minimum room sizes, egress, ceiling heights, and smoke/CO alarms; minimum dwelling size in most single family zoning districts ranges from 800 to 1,200 square feet, which excludes most classic tiny homes under 400 square feet. Appendix Q of the IRC allows smaller homes under 400 square feet when adopted, but cities must specifically opt in; homeowners should confirm with Planning and Zoning whether Appendix Q is in effect. Tiny homes on wheels are regulated as recreational vehicles under Texas Transportation Code and cannot legally serve as a permanent dwelling on a single family residential lot; they are restricted to licensed RV parks or short stays consistent with the citys RV parking rules. Because Haltom City does not have a broad by-right ADU ordinance, a backyard tiny home intended for family members is only permitted in duplex or multifamily zoning or with a specific use permit. Manufactured homes must meet HUD standards and often require a variance in single family districts that prohibit manufactured housing.