Skokie, IL Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes (2026)

Skokie's zoning code establishes minimum lot size and dwelling area requirements that effectively preclude very small homes in single-family zones. A tiny home built on a permanent foundation must meet the International Residential Code including Appendix Q (Tiny Houses) as adopted by Skokie, if applicable, which permits dwellings of 400 square feet or less with specific allowances for ceiling heights and stair dimensions. Dwellings must connect to Village water and sanitary sewer; self-contained systems such as RV holding tanks or composting toilets are generally not accepted as primary systems. A tiny home on wheels classified as a recreational vehicle or park model RV is not permitted as a permanent residence in residential zones. Such vehicles may be parked temporarily on a residential property for storage purposes subject to parking ordinance rules, but not occupied as a dwelling. Tiny homes used as an accessory dwelling unit face the same obstacles as other ADUs in Skokie's single-family zoning. Placement on a single-family lot generally requires the tiny home to be the only dwelling on the lot, meet zoning minimums for floor area and bulk, and be permitted as a standard residence.