Trinity County, CA Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes (2026)

Unincorporated Trinity County addresses tiny homes directly through Ordinance No. 1375, adopted June 17, 2025, which established County Code Chapter 15.27 (Movable Tiny Homes). Section 15.27.030 defines a 'Movable Tiny Home' as a small dwelling unit typically 400 square feet or less, transportable, and constructed to comply with standards applicable to recreational vehicles. Under Section 15.27.040, movable tiny homes are a use by right in any district that allows a single-family dwelling by right, including the Unclassified (U), Agricultural (A), Agricultural Preserve (AP), Agriculture-Forest (A-F), Rural Residential (RR), Single-Family (R-1), Duplex (R-2), and qualifying Specific Unit Development (SUD) districts, and must meet the applicable zoning setbacks plus Fire Safe Ordinance (Chapter 8.30) setbacks. Section 15.27.050 requires a building permit; the unit must be licensed and registered with the California DMV or the Department of Housing and Community Development; may not exceed one story (excluding sleeping lofts) or 400 square feet, and may not move under its own power. It must meet Chapter 8.30 fire-safe standards (State Fire Marshal-listed siding, Class A roof, tempered windows on one side). For appearance, the undercarriage, wheels, axles, tongue, and hitch must be concealed and the unit must look like a conventional house rather than an RV, at the Building Official's discretion. The home must connect to approved water and sewer through Environmental Health and to a permanent power source, comply with California Health and Safety Code 18027.3 certification, and provide two means of egress. Removal requires a demolition permit.