Tiny Homes: Carmichael vs Elk Grove
How do tiny homes rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Elk Grove, CA?
Carmichael and Elk Grove 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 →Elk Grove, CA
Sacramento County
Tiny homes on a permanent foundation can qualify as ADUs in Elk Grove under Gov Code §65852.2 and EGMC Ch. 23.70. Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) are generally treated as RVs and cannot be used as full-time dwellings on residential lots.
View full Elk Grove rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Elk Grove |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - | Qualifies as ADU |
| THOW | - | Treated as RV |
| RV dwelling | - | Not allowed long-term |
| Min size | - | 70 sq ft habitable room |
| State law | - | Gov Code §65852.2 |
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.
Elk Grove FAQ
Can I live in a tiny house on wheels in my Elk Grove backyard?
Not as a permanent residence. THOWs are RVs under state law and cannot be used as dwellings outside licensed parks.
Is there a minimum size for a tiny ADU?
Functionally yes: the unit must meet the California Residential Code including a habitable room of at least 70 sq ft and full kitchen/bath.
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