Tiny Homes: El Cajon vs Fallbrook
How do tiny homes rules compare between El Cajon, CA and Fallbrook, CA?
El Cajon and Fallbrook have similar restriction levels.
El Cajon, CA
San Diego County
El Cajon allows tiny homes as ADUs under California Government Code 65852.2 and ECMC Chapter 17.220. A tiny home on a permanent foundation that meets building code may qualify as a junior ADU (up to 500 sq ft) or standard ADU (up to 1,200 sq ft) without requiring separate zoning approval.
View full El Cajon rules →Fallbrook, 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 Fallbrook rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cajon | Fallbrook |
|---|---|---|
| Max ADU Size | 1,200 sq ft detached; 500 sq ft JADU | 1,200 sq ft detached |
| Foundation | Permanent foundation required | - |
| Tiny Home on Wheels | Classified as RV — not permanent housing | - |
| Setbacks | 4 ft side/rear for detached ADU | - |
| Code Reference | ECMC Ch. 17.220; CA Gov Code §65852.2 | - |
| On Foundation | - | Treated as ADU — permits required |
| On Wheels | - | Treated as RV — not permanent dwelling |
| Building Code | - | Full compliance required for foundation |
| RV Residence | - | Not permitted as primary dwelling |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cajon FAQ
Can I put a tiny home on my property in El Cajon?
Yes, if it is on a permanent foundation and meets building code. It would be permitted as an ADU under ECMC Chapter 17.220 and state ADU law.
Are tiny homes on wheels allowed as housing in El Cajon?
No. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles under California law and cannot be used as permanent residences on residential lots.
Do I need a permit for a tiny home ADU?
Yes. A building permit is required. The city must approve ADU permits ministerially within 60 days per state law.
Fallbrook 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.
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