Tiny Homes: Carmichael vs Courtland
How do tiny homes rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Courtland, CA?
Carmichael and Courtland 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 →Courtland, CA
Sacramento County
Tiny homes on a permanent foundation can qualify as ADUs in unincorporated Sacramento County. Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) are regulated as recreational vehicles and generally cannot be used as permanent dwellings on residential lots.
View full Courtland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Courtland |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - | ADU pathway available |
| Min Size | - | 150 sq ft habitable |
| THOW | - | Treated as RV |
| RV Stay | - | 30 days max |
| MH Parks | - | Title 25 rules |
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.
Courtland FAQ
Can I live in a tiny home on wheels on my rural Sacramento County property?
Not as a permanent residence. THOWs are treated as RVs and cannot be occupied long-term outside a licensed RV or mobile home park.
What if I put the tiny home on a foundation?
Then it qualifies as an ADU or primary dwelling under state ADU law if it meets code and zoning.
Compare other topics
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