Tiny Homes: Lodi vs Stockton
How do tiny homes rules compare between Lodi, CA and Stockton, CA?
Stockton has fewer restrictions than Lodi.
Lodi, CA
San Joaquin County
Lodi does not have a tiny-home-specific ordinance. A tiny house on a permanent foundation is treated as a single-family dwelling or ADU under LMC Chapter 17.36, and a movable tiny house on wheels is treated as a recreational vehicle, which may not be used as a permanent residence on residential lots.
View full Lodi rules →Stockton, CA
San Joaquin County
Stockton allows tiny homes as ADUs under CA Gov Code 65852.2. Detached units up to 1,200 sq ft and 16 ft tall permitted on single-family lots. No parking required for any ADU.
View full Stockton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lodi | Stockton |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | LMC 17.36.130 (ADU); Title 10 (RV) | - |
| Tiny Home on Foundation | Permitted as ADU | - |
| Tiny House on Wheels | Treated as RV — no permanent residence | - |
| Free Plans Available | 375 / 550 / 775 / 908 sq ft | - |
| Max Size (Detached) | - | 1,200 sq ft / 16 ft height |
| Max Size (Attached) | - | 1,200 sq ft or 50% of primary home |
| JADU | - | 500 sq ft max within existing structure |
| Parking | - | None required for ADUs |
| Setbacks | - | 4 ft rear and side for detached ADUs |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lodi FAQ
Can I live in a tiny house in Lodi?
Yes, if the tiny house is built on a permanent foundation and permitted as an ADU under LMC 17.36.130. A tiny house on wheels cannot be used as a permanent residence on a Lodi residential lot.
Does Lodi have free tiny-house plans?
Yes. The City offers four free pre-approved ADU floor plans of 375, 550, 775, and 908 sq ft. See the Lodi ADU program page.
Stockton FAQ
Can I put a tiny home in my backyard in Stockton?
Yes. Stockton allows tiny homes as ADUs on single-family lots. The unit can be up to 1,200 square feet and 16 feet tall with 4-foot side and rear setbacks. A building permit is required.
Does my tiny home ADU need its own parking space?
No. Stockton does not require off-street parking for ADUs. If you convert a garage to an ADU, the city cannot require replacement parking spaces.
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