Rockville, MD Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes (2026)

Rockville does not have dedicated regulations for tiny homes. A tiny home on a permanent foundation located in the rear yard of a single-unit detached property may qualify under the accessory building regulations in Chapter 25 of the City Code, subject to the 750-square-foot maximum footprint, setback requirements, and height limits. If used as a dwelling unit, it would need to meet the attached or future detached ADU requirements, including conditional use approval. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles under Rockville zoning and may not be used as permanent residences. RVs may be parked on residential property subject to the city's parking regulations but cannot be occupied as living quarters. All habitable structures must comply with the International Residential Code as adopted by the city, including minimum room sizes, ceiling heights, egress, plumbing, electrical, and energy efficiency requirements. The IRC requires a minimum habitable room area of 70 square feet and a minimum ceiling height of 7 feet. Maryland's Accessory Dwelling Units Act of 2025 may further expand options for small dwelling units statewide. Contact the Zoning Division at 240-314-8211 for guidance on specific tiny home proposals.