Tiny Homes: Lakewood vs Santa Monica
How do tiny homes rules compare between Lakewood, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Lakewood and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
Lakewood regulates tiny homes differently based on whether they are on a permanent foundation or on wheels. Zoning and minimum square footage requirements apply.
View full Lakewood rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Tiny homes on foundations in Santa Monica are regulated as ADUs under CA Gov Code §65852.2 and the local zoning code. Tiny homes on wheels are not permitted as permanent dwellings. The city must allow ADUs per state law.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lakewood | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | Treated as dwelling | - |
| On Wheels | RV classification typically | Not permanent dwelling |
| Min Size | 400 to 800 sq ft varies | - |
| ADU Path | May allow as secondary | - |
| On Foundation | - | Regulated as ADU |
| State Law | - | CA Gov Code §65852.2 |
| Permit | - | Building permit required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lakewood FAQ
Can I put a tiny home in my backyard?
Possibly under Lakewood ADU rules if on a permanent foundation. Tiny homes on wheels face stricter zoning limitations.
What is the minimum house size?
Lakewood typically requires 400 to 800+ square feet for a primary dwelling. ADU rules may allow smaller secondary units.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I put a tiny home in my backyard?
Possibly under Santa Monica ADU rules if on a permanent foundation. Tiny homes on wheels face stricter zoning limitations.
What is the minimum house size?
Santa Monica typically requires 400 to 800+ square feet for a primary dwelling. ADU rules may allow smaller secondary units.
Compare other topics
See how Lakewood and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.
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