Tiny Homes: Midway City vs Mission Viejo

Can I park a tiny home on wheels in my backyard full time?

Generally no, unless it qualifies as an ADU on a foundation or your city has a specific movable-tiny-house ordinance. RVs are limited to RV parks.

Are foundation-built tiny homes protected by ADU law?

Yes. A tiny home meeting ADU size and code requirements receives the full ministerial approval protections of Government Code 65852.2 statewide.

Can I park a tiny house on wheels and live in it in Mission Viejo?

No. Tiny houses on wheels are treated as recreational vehicles or manufactured housing units that are not certified for permanent residency in a single-family zone. Mission Viejo's RV and parking regulations and Title 9 zoning do not allow a movable tiny house as a permanent dwelling. Use of an RV as a residence on private property is prohibited. Owners who want a tiny dwelling should pursue an ADU under MVMC Section 9.10.020(12) and California Government Code Section 65852.2, or a permanent foundation tiny house under CRC Appendix AX.

How big can a tiny home ADU be in Mission Viejo?

Up to 1,200 square feet for a detached ADU, or 50 percent of the primary dwelling or 1,200 sq ft (whichever is less) for an attached ADU. A Junior ADU is capped at 500 sq ft and must be inside the existing single-family home. State law (Government Code 65852.2) requires Mission Viejo to allow at least one ADU and one JADU per single-family lot, with at least a 4-foot side and rear setback and at least a 16-foot height allowance. Confirm current rules with Mission Viejo Planning at (949) 470-3053.