Tiny Homes: Bostonia vs San Diego
How do tiny homes rules compare between Bostonia, CA and San Diego, CA?
Bostonia and San Diego have similar restriction levels.
Bostonia, CA
San Diego County
Tiny homes in unincorporated San Diego County are regulated differently based on type. Tiny homes on foundations are treated as ADUs (up to 1,200 sq ft detached). Tiny homes on wheels are treated as RVs and cannot serve as permanent dwellings. Building permits required for foundation-based tiny homes.
View full Bostonia rules →San Diego, CA
San Diego County
Tiny homes in San Diego are most commonly permitted as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) under SDMC Chapter 14, Article 1, Division 3. Detached ADUs may be up to 1,200 sq ft; units 800 sq ft or smaller are exempt from lot coverage, FAR, and open-space requirements. ADUs up to 16 ft tall may be built at side and rear property lines; taller ADUs require 4-ft setbacks. The minimum ADU size is 150 sq ft. Tiny homes on wheels are not recognized as permanent housing.
View full San Diego rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bostonia | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| On Foundation | Treated as ADU — permits required | - |
| On Wheels | Treated as RV — not permanent dwelling | - |
| Max ADU Size | 1,200 sq ft detached | - |
| Building Code | Full compliance required for foundation | - |
| RV Residence | Not permitted as primary dwelling | - |
| ADU Framework | - | SDMC Ch. 14, Art. 1, Div. 3 |
| Max Size | - | 1,200 sq ft for detached ADU |
| Min Size | - | 150 sq ft |
| Small ADU Bonus | - | Under 800 sq ft: exempt from lot coverage/FAR/open space |
| Height | - | Up to 16 ft at property line; taller with 4-ft setback |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bostonia FAQ
Can I build a tiny home in unincorporated San Diego County?
Yes, if it is on a permanent foundation. It will be regulated as an ADU with a maximum of 1,200 sq ft and must meet all building code requirements. A building permit from County PDS is required.
Can I live in a tiny home on wheels?
No. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles and cannot be used as permanent residences under county zoning regulations.
What are the minimum size requirements?
California building code requires habitable rooms to be at least 70 sq ft with a 7-foot minimum ceiling height. There is no county-specific minimum square footage for an ADU beyond building code requirements.
San Diego FAQ
Can I build a tiny home in San Diego?
Yes, as an ADU on a residential lot. Detached ADUs from 150-1,200 sq ft are permitted. Units 800 sq ft or smaller get development standard exemptions.
Can I park a tiny home on wheels on my property?
Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles, not permanent housing. They cannot serve as a primary residence but may be parked subject to RV parking rules.
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