Vermont Residential Building Code Governs Tiny Homes

Under 30 V.S.A. § 51 and Public Service Department rules, Vermont enforces statewide Residential Building Energy Standards (RBES) for all new residential construction, including tiny homes on foundations. The 2020 Vermont Residential Building Energy Standards incorporate IRC Appendix Q, allowing reduced ceiling heights, loft access, and emergency egress windows specific to dwellings 400 square feet or less. Tiny homes on wheels are regulated as recreational vehicles or manufactured homes depending on certification. Municipalities determine zoning placement and minimum dwelling size for permanent occupancy, but cannot waive RBES energy and safety standards.

Failure to meet RBES violates 30 V.S.A. § 51. Builders face certification denial; non-compliant units cannot receive certificates of occupancy or transfer title with energy certificate.