Tiny Homes: McClellan Park vs Rancho Cordova
How do tiny homes rules compare between McClellan Park, CA and Rancho Cordova, CA?
McClellan Park and Rancho Cordova have similar restriction levels.
McClellan Park, CA
Sacramento County
McClellan Park is an unincorporated CDP in Sacramento County built around the former McClellan Air Force Base. Tiny home rules follow the Sacramento County Zoning Code (Title 5) and the 2022 California Building Code, not a separate city ordinance. Permanent-foundation tiny homes can qualify as ADUs under Zoning Code § 5.4.5.F. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles and may not be occupied as permanent residences outside a licensed RV or mobile home park.
View full McClellan Park rules →Rancho Cordova, CA
Sacramento County
Tiny homes on a permanent foundation can qualify as ADUs under California Government Code Section 65852.2 and must meet the California Residential Code. Tiny homes on wheels (THOW) are treated as recreational vehicles and cannot be used as permanent dwellings in Rancho Cordova without park model or RV park siting.
View full Rancho Cordova rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | McClellan Park | Rancho Cordova |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Authority | Sacramento County (unincorporated) | - |
| Predominant Zoning | McClellan Park Specific Plan | - |
| ADU Standard | Zoning Code § 5.4.5.F | - |
| Max Detached ADU | 850–1,000 sq ft | - |
| THOWs as Residence | Not allowed outside parks | - |
| Foundation Tiny | - | Allowed as ADU |
| RC Appendix X | - | Under 400 sq ft tiny homes |
| THOW | - | Treated as RV |
| Permanent Living | - | Not allowed in THOW |
| State Law | - | Gov Code 65852.2 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
McClellan Park FAQ
Can I live in a tiny home at McClellan Park?
Only on a parcel that allows residential use under the Sacramento County Zoning Code and the McClellan Park Specific Plan. Much of McClellan Park is business-park, industrial, or airport-zoned. Where residential ADUs are allowed, Zoning Code § 5.4.5.F controls — foundation required, 850–1,000 sq ft max, 4-ft side/rear setbacks.
Are tiny homes on wheels allowed in McClellan Park?
No, not as permanent dwellings. Sacramento County treats THOWs as recreational vehicles and prohibits permanent RV occupancy on residential lots outside a licensed RV or mobile home park. There is no county-adopted THOW ordinance.
Who do I contact about tiny home permits in McClellan Park?
Sacramento County Planning and Environmental Review (planning.saccounty.gov) handles zoning verification, and the Building Permits and Inspection Division issues construction permits under the 2022 California Building Code.
Rancho Cordova FAQ
Can I build a tiny house in my backyard?
Yes, if it is on a permanent foundation and permitted as an ADU. It must meet California Residential Code and Rancho Cordova zoning standards.
Can I live in a tiny house on wheels on my property?
No. THOWs are treated as RVs and cannot be used for permanent habitation on residential lots in Rancho Cordova.
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