California Tiny Homes Law: Statewide Accessory Structures Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: Health & Safety Code 18007
ADU pathway: Gov Code 65852.2
Standards: HUD or ANSI 119.5
Regulator: HCD

Source: California Health and Safety Code 18010

Full Breakdown

Health and Safety Code sections 18007-18014 govern manufactured homes and define when a structure qualifies as a mobilehome, manufactured home, or recreational vehicle. Tiny homes built to ANSI 119.5 or HUD code may be sited as ADUs under Government Code 65852.2 if they meet ADU dimensional rules and are placed on a permanent foundation. RV-classified tiny homes are restricted to mobilehome and RV parks. State law also covers movable tiny houses through SB-477 and HCD information bulletins, providing a uniform regulatory framework.

Violations & Penalties

Improper siting outside ADU or RV-park rules may trigger zoning enforcement; HCD enforces manufactured housing standards statewide.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

California Treats Movable Tiny Homes as ADUs

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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