Tiny home rules in Surprise, AZ — 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 Surprise must comply with the adopted International Residential Code (IRC) and city zoning requirements. Tiny homes on foundations may be permitted as ADUs in qualifying zones. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as RVs and cannot serve as permanent dwellings in residential zones.
The City of Surprise follows the International Residential Code, which establishes minimum dwelling size and habitability standards. Tiny homes on permanent foundations may be permitted as accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in qualifying zoning districts, subject to minimum size requirements (typically 200+ square feet of habitable space). Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) are classified as recreational vehicles under Arizona law and are not permitted as permanent residences in standard residential zones. RV-classified tiny homes must be stored per the city's RV parking rules. Arizona has been increasingly friendly to ADU legislation, and Surprise's zoning code allows for detached accessory living quarters in certain zones. Building permits, utility connections, and inspections are required for any tiny home used as a permanent dwelling. Contact Community Development at (623) 222-1200 for zoning verification.
Living in an unpermitted structure or RV-classified tiny home as a permanent residence violates zoning code. Building without permits results in stop-work orders and potential removal. Fines apply for habitation of non-code-compliant structures.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
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