Tiny Homes: Mountain View vs San Jose
How do tiny homes rules compare between Mountain View, CA and San Jose, CA?
Mountain View and San Jose have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Tiny homes on foundations are regulated as ADUs in Mountain View. Movable tiny houses on wheels may be allowed as ADUs if they meet state movable tiny house standards.
View full Mountain View rules →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
San Jose permits tiny homes on foundations as Accessory Dwelling Units under California Government Code §65852.2 and local ADU ordinance. Movable tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) can qualify as ADUs if they meet ANSI 119.5 or HUD standards and are installed with utilities. Homeless tiny-home villages operate under city-sanctioned programs.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation tiny | ADU-regulated | - |
| Movable tiny | May qualify as ADU | - |
| Min size | 150 sq ft efficiency | - |
| RV as home | Not allowed | - |
| Utilities | Permanent connections | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Can I live in an RV on my property?
No. Mountain View does not permit occupancy of recreational vehicles as dwellings on residential lots.
How is a tiny home on wheels different from an RV?
A Movable Tiny House meets HCD and ANSI standards and anchors to utilities; an RV is built for travel and is not a dwelling.
San Jose FAQ
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