Tiny Homes: Midway City vs Santa Ana
How do tiny homes rules compare between Midway City, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Midway City and Santa Ana have similar restriction levels.
Midway City, CA
Orange County
California HCD guidance and Health and Safety Code 18007 classify many tiny homes on wheels as manufactured housing or ADUs, granting statewide siting protections.
View full Midway City rules →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Tiny homes in Santa Ana are primarily regulated through the ADU framework under SAMC Section 41-194 and California Government Code Section 65852.2. Tiny homes on wheels are generally not permitted as permanent residences on residential lots unless they meet ADU or JADU requirements.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Midway City | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | Health & Safety Code 18007 | - |
| ADU pathway | Gov Code 65852.2 | - |
| Standards | HUD or ANSI 119.5 | - |
| Regulator | HCD | - |
| ADU Max Size | - | 1,200 sq ft (detached) |
| JADU Max Size | - | 500 sq ft (within existing structure) |
| Permit Type | - | Ministerial building permit |
| Code Section | - | SAMC §41-194 |
| THOWs | - | Not permitted as permanent residence |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Midway City FAQ
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
Can I place a tiny home on wheels on my property in Santa Ana?
No. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles and cannot be used as permanent residences on residential lots under SAMC zoning regulations.
Can I build a tiny home as an ADU in Santa Ana?
Yes. A tiny home on a permanent foundation that meets California Building Code standards qualifies as an ADU under SAMC Section 41-194, approved through a ministerial building permit.
What is the maximum size for a tiny home ADU?
Detached ADUs may be up to 1,200 square feet. Junior ADUs within existing structures may be up to 500 square feet.
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