Tiny Homes: Camarillo vs Ojai

Can I put a tiny house in my Camarillo backyard?

Yes, if it sits on a permanent foundation and meets ADU rules: at least 150 sq ft, 4-foot side and rear setbacks, 16 feet maximum height (detached), and a building permit through Camarillo Community Development. The City has 60 days to issue the permit on a complete application.

Can I live in a tiny house on wheels in Camarillo?

No. Camarillo's ADU ordinance does not authorize movable tiny houses on wheels (THOWs) as permanent dwellings. THOWs are treated as recreational vehicles and may not be used as housing on residential lots. Confirm any specific scenario with Community Development at (805) 388-5340.

Can I rent my tiny-home ADU on Airbnb?

No. Camarillo prohibits short-term rentals citywide. ADUs - including tiny-home ADUs - must be rented for 31 consecutive days or longer.

Are movable tiny houses legal in Ojai?

The original two-year pilot (Ord. 923) expired Nov 26, 2023. A draft replacement ordinance was introduced April 8, 2025 with a 440 sq ft cap, 14-ft height, 4-ft side/rear setbacks, and a 20-unit first-year limit. Confirm current adopted status with Community Development at (805) 646-5581 x112.

Can I build a tiny home on a permanent foundation?

Yes. Tiny homes on permanent foundations are treated as standard ADUs under Ojai Ord. 905 and CA Gov Code 65852.2 - detached up to 1,200 sq ft, 4-ft side/rear setbacks, 16-ft height, with ministerial approval.

Can I rent my Ojai tiny home on Airbnb?

No. Ojai bans all short-term rentals under 30 days citywide (Ord. 943, eff. Nov 10, 2023), and the ban explicitly includes ADUs. Tiny home ADUs must be rented for 31 consecutive days or longer.

How many tiny homes can fit on one lot?

Single-family parcels generally allow one ADU plus one JADU under state law. Movable tiny houses are limited by the active pilot/ordinance program, currently subject to a 20-unit citywide cap in the draft 2025 ordinance. Confirm specifics with Community Development.