Tinley Park, IL Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes (2026)

Tinley Park treats tiny homes under its existing zoning and building code framework. Tiny homes on permanent foundations qualify as single-family dwellings and must meet the R-district minimum dwelling size (which may be larger than typical tiny home sizes, often 750 to 1,200 square feet depending on district), minimum width, foundation requirements, and full International Residential Code compliance. Appendix Q of the IRC provides construction standards for dwellings 400 square feet or less if the Village has adopted it; confirm adoption status with Community Development. Tiny houses on wheels (THOW) are regulated as recreational vehicles under Illinois law and are not permitted as permanent dwelling units in residential districts. RVs and THOWs stored on residential property are subject to Village parking rules that typically require storage in the rear or side yard, limit how long they may be on the property, and prohibit use as living quarters. Second-unit tiny homes in backyards as ADUs are not permitted under current zoning. Tiny home advocates seeking to build in Tinley Park should confirm minimum dwelling size requirements before purchasing a property or design.