Tiny Homes: Green Valley vs Oro Valley
How do tiny homes rules compare between Green Valley, AZ and Oro Valley, AZ?
Green Valley has fewer restrictions than Oro Valley.
Green Valley, AZ
Pima County
Pima County permits tiny homes as accessory dwelling units under the 2024 Zoning Code update for unincorporated areas. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles and cannot serve as permanent dwellings. Site-built or modular tiny homes on foundations must meet IRC building standards and obtain standard building permits through Pima County Development Services.
View full Green Valley rules →Oro Valley, AZ
Pima County
Oro Valley has no dedicated tiny home ordinance. Tiny homes on foundations may be permitted if they meet IRC minimums. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as RVs and cannot serve as dwellings.
View full Oro Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Green Valley | Oro Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Required | Yes for permanent dwelling | Yes for permanent dwelling |
| THOWs | Classified as RVs, not dwellings | - |
| Building Code | 2018 IRC adopted | - |
| Permits | 520-724-9000 Dev Services | - |
| Septic/Well | ADEQ approval needed | - |
| Dedicated Tiny Home Code | - | None |
| Minimum Room Size | - | 120 sq ft (IRC) |
| THOWs as Dwellings | - | Not permitted |
| HOA Restrictions | - | Common -- most prohibit ADUs |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Green Valley FAQ
Can I live in a tiny home on wheels in Pima County?
No. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles under Arizona law and cannot be used as permanent residences in residential zones. You must place a tiny home on a permanent foundation and obtain building permits to use it as a dwelling.
Do I need a permit for a tiny home in Pima County?
Yes. Any structure intended for habitation requires a building permit from Pima County Development Services. The home must meet IRC building standards, connect to approved utilities, and comply with zoning setback and lot coverage requirements.
What is the minimum size for a tiny home in unincorporated Pima County?
The county follows IRC standards which require at least one habitable room of 120 sq ft minimum. The home must also meet ceiling height, egress, and ventilation requirements under the adopted building code.
Oro Valley FAQ
Can I live in a tiny home in Oro Valley?
A tiny home on a permanent foundation may be permitted if it meets IRC minimums and zoning requirements, but most HOAs prohibit secondary structures used as dwellings. Tiny homes on wheels cannot serve as permanent residences.
Are tiny homes on wheels allowed in Oro Valley?
THOWs are classified as recreational vehicles. They may be stored on your property subject to RV parking rules but cannot be occupied as a dwelling.
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