Seminole vs St. Petersburg
How do tiny homes rules compare between Seminole, FL and St. Petersburg, FL?
St. Petersburg has fewer restrictions than Seminole.
Seminole, FL
Pinellas County
Tiny homes in Seminole must comply with the Florida Building Code, minimum dwelling size standards, and residential zoning. Tiny houses on wheels are typically treated as RVs and not permitted as primary dwellings.
View full Seminole rules →St. Petersburg, FL
Pinellas County
Tiny homes in St. Petersburg are reviewed as either accessory dwelling units under Sec. 16.50.010 or accessory living space under Sec. 16.50.011, and must meet Florida Building Code minimums.
View full St. Petersburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Seminole | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | Permanent required | - |
| Wheels | Treated as RV | - |
| FBC Appendix Q | Under 400 sq ft allowed | - |
| Zoning | Must match district minimums | - |
| ADU pathway | - | Sec. 16.50.010 |
| Living space pathway | - | Sec. 16.50.011 |
| RV tiny homes | - | RV parks only |
| Building code | - | Florida Building Code |
| Floor area cap | - | 40% if ADU |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Seminole FAQ
Can I live in a tiny house on wheels in Seminole?
Generally no. Tiny houses on wheels are classified as RVs and may not serve as full-time residences outside licensed RV parks. Permanent-foundation tiny homes are treated as standard dwellings.
Does Seminole allow Florida Building Code Appendix Q?
Yes, Florida has adopted Appendix Q standards for small dwellings under 400 square feet. Tiny homes still must meet zoning, setback, and utility connection requirements.
St. Petersburg FAQ
Can I park a tiny home on wheels in my St. Petersburg backyard and live in it?
No. Tiny homes on wheels are treated as recreational vehicles and cannot be used as full-time residences in residential zoning districts under Chapter 16, only at approved RV parks.
Can I build a permanent tiny home as an ADU in St. Petersburg?
Yes if it sits on a foundation, meets Florida Building Code, fits within the Sec. 16.50.010 ADU 40 percent floor area cap, and complies with district setbacks and parking rules.
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