Tiny home rules in San Antonio, TX — covering tiny houses on wheels (THOWs), park model RVs, and tiny home on foundation builds — determine where they are legal and how they get permitted.
Tiny homes in San Antonio generally must comply with ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) regulations under UDC § 35-371. Detached ADUs are limited to 50% of the primary dwelling or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less, with a maximum of 1 bedroom and a height limit that cannot exceed the primary residence. Tiny homes on wheels may be classified as recreational vehicles and subject to different regulations under UDC § 35-385.
San Antonio classifies tiny homes based on construction type. Foundation-built tiny homes are treated as standard dwellings and must meet local building codes including minimum square footage (often 400 to 800 sq ft). Tiny homes on wheels (THOW) are typically classified as RVs or mobile homes with different zoning restrictions. Appendix Q of the IRC provides building standards for tiny houses under 400 sq ft. ADU ordinances may provide a pathway for tiny homes as secondary dwellings. Utility connections, septic/sewer, and foundation requirements apply. Some jurisdictions have created specific tiny home zoning districts or overlay zones.
Unpermitted dwellings: removal or retroactive permitting. Zoning violations: fines and required relocation. Occupancy without certificate: prohibited.
San Antonio, TX
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Bexar County.
See how other cities in Bexar County handle tiny homes.
See how San Antonio's tiny homes rules stack up against other locations.
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