Tiny Homes: Carmichael vs Citrus Heights
How do tiny homes rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Citrus Heights, CA?
Carmichael and Citrus Heights have similar restriction levels.
Carmichael, CA
Sacramento County
Carmichael is an unincorporated CDP in Sacramento County, so tiny home regulation comes from the Sacramento County Zoning Code (Title 5) and the 2022 California Building Code, not a city ordinance. A permanent-foundation tiny home that meets the California Residential Code can qualify as an Accessory Dwelling Unit under Sacramento County Zoning Code Section 5.4.5.F. Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) are recreational vehicles and cannot be occupied as a permanent residence on a residential lot.
View full Carmichael rules →Citrus Heights, CA
Sacramento County
Tiny homes on permanent foundations may qualify as ADUs in Citrus Heights, while tiny homes on wheels are regulated as recreational vehicles and cannot be permanent residences.
View full Citrus Heights rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Citrus Heights |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Authority | Sacramento County (unincorporated) | - |
| Typical Zoning | RD-5 / RD-7 residential | - |
| ADU Standard | Zoning Code § 5.4.5.F | - |
| Max Detached ADU | 850–1,000 sq ft | - |
| Min Habitable Room | 120 sq ft (CRC R304) | - |
| On Foundation | - | Treated as ADU |
| On Wheels | - | Treated as RV |
| RV Residency | - | Not allowed |
| Standard | - | CRC for ADUs |
| Local Ordinance | - | No THOW specific rule |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carmichael FAQ
Can I put a tiny home in my Carmichael backyard?
Yes, if it sits on a permanent foundation, meets the 2022 California Residential Code, and complies with Sacramento County Zoning Code § 5.4.5.F as an ADU — up to 850 sq ft (one bedroom) or 1,000 sq ft (two-plus bedrooms), 4-ft minimum rear/side setbacks, 16-ft detached height limit.
Can I live in a tiny home on wheels in Carmichael?
Not as a permanent residence on a residential lot. Sacramento County classifies THOWs as recreational vehicles and Title 22 prohibits permanent RV occupancy in residential zones. Permanent residence is only allowed in a licensed RV or mobile home park.
Where do I apply for a tiny home / ADU permit in Carmichael?
Apply through Sacramento County Building Permits and Inspection Division and Planning and Environmental Review at planning.saccounty.gov. Plans must show foundation, setbacks, height, and ADU size compliance under § 5.4.5.F plus CRC habitability standards.
Citrus Heights FAQ
Can I park a tiny home on wheels in my backyard and live in it?
No. Recreational vehicles cannot be used as permanent dwellings on residential lots in Citrus Heights.
Does a tiny home ADU still qualify for no impact fees?
Yes. If under 750 square feet and built on a permanent foundation it qualifies for state ADU fee exemptions.
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