Universal City, TX Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes (2026)

Universal City treats tiny homes in two categories. A permanent tiny house built on a foundation must comply with the 2015 International Residential Code including IRC Appendix Q which addresses dwellings 400 square feet and under, meet the city zoning minimum lot size and minimum dwelling floor area for the applicable district, and be served by permitted utility connections. Many residential districts have minimum floor area requirements around 1,200 square feet for a single family home, which effectively precludes typical 300 to 400 square foot tiny houses except through a planned development or variance. A tiny house on wheels THOW is classified as a recreational vehicle and falls under state motor vehicle and RV rules; it cannot be used as a primary residence on a single family lot and cannot be parked long term in driveways or yards as a dwelling. RVs are allowed in permitted RV parks. Homeowners interested in tiny living should work with Planning and Zoning early in the process and consider districts or infill opportunities where reduced minimum sizes may be possible.