Guide to Understanding Tiny House Rules and Regulations in Ohio

Do you want to be a part of the tiny house movement in Ohio? No matter whether you are a minimalist lifestyle enthusiast or a potential homeowner or you want to make yourself aware of the various regulations surrounding tiny houses in Ohio, you must have an in-depth understanding of the various rules and regulations governing tiny abodes in the state, which will help you make learned decisions and navigate the process more effectively and efficiently. 

There is ambiguity in the fact as to what qualifies as a tiny house in Ohio. However, as a matter of reference, a house under 400 square feet is considered a standard size to be classified as a tiny house. 

Here, we will discuss the various nitty-gritty of tiny houses in Ohio, like their legality, building code compliance, minimum size requirements, ideal locations for construction or parking, and more. So, let’s delve right in. 

 

Are Tiny Homes Legal in Ohio? 

There is no straightforward answer to whether tiny houses are legal in Ohio. Though such houses are not explicitly outlawed, the prevalent building regulations pose quite a number of challenges for those who want to reside in compact dwellings. 

Established in 2017, Ohio’s building code is based on the 2015 edition of the IBC, expanded as the International Building Code. This building code does not have the specific provisions found in the 2018 version catering to tiny houses. 

However, there is still a glimmer of hope for minimalist lovers, especially for those who want to live in tiny houses on wheels

Which Types of Tiny Houses are permitted in Ohio? 

Speaking about tiny home construction laws, Ohio is one of the stricter states. However, the fact that building and zoning laws are more stringent does not in any way mean that you cannot build and design the tiny home of your dreams. 

We at TinyHouseMe build temporary tiny houses, transitional structures, and permanent structures for people interested in embracing the minimalist lifestyle in Ohio. Here, you should note that these tiny structures’ regulations are quite different. 

What are the Prerequisites for a Tiny Home to Cater to Ohio Building Codes? 

The Ohio building code says that the minimum size of a tiny house should be 950 square feet, which is very large compared to the typical tiny house dimension prevalent all over the U.S. 

Rules Governing Permanent Structures 

You should consult the building codes in Ohio before setting up a tiny house in this state. These codes comprehensively specify structural integrity, safety features, foundations, insulation, plumbing and electrical systems, and more. You should adhere to these regulations to ensure your tiny abode meets the necessary standards. 

Rules Governing Temporary Tiny Homes 

Temporary tiny homes are mobile and are not meant for year-round living. Thus, these houses have lenient regulations. 

A house vehicle or travel trailer is typically defined as a non-self-propelled R.V. that cannot exceed an overall length of forty feet. Tiny houses on wheels come under this classification.

Rules Governing Transitional Structures 

ADUs are often classified as transitional structures. They are subject to the local zoning regulations and ordinances. It is highly suggested to check with the jurisdiction where you decide to set up your tiny house, which will help determine the restrictions and requirements for these living spaces. 

Cuyahoga County is the only county in Ohio that has permitted accessory dwelling units with evidence of the correct permits. 

However, one must refrain from using these ADUs as primary residences. They can only use it as a secondary residence. 

Can you permanently reside in an Ohio Tiny Home? 

Various factors determine whether you can permanently reside in an Ohio tiny house, like building codes, how your tiny home is classified, and local zoning regulations. 

As aforementioned, some areas have lax regulations regarding permanently residing in tiny houses, while others have restrictions or limitations. 

It is advisable to research the specific regulations of your preferred location, which will help you determine whether permanently living in a tiny house in that area is feasible. 

How small an Ohio tiny house can be? 

Regarding the dimensions of a tiny structure, Ohio has laid down some stringent requirements. The minimum size requirement for permanent houses in Ohio is 950 square feet, and tiny homes are no exception. 

ADUs and temporary tiny houses have lax size requirements. For instance, some counties in Ohio consider a house covering an area of 500 square feet or less a tiny home. However, it should be categorized as an R.V. 

Where can you set up a tiny home in Ohio? 

If you want to build a tiny home in Ohio, here is a list of the most popular counties with favorable laws for construction. Let’s take a look at them. 

Preble County, Ohio 

Preble County has statewide regulations and has specifically defined tiny houses to lodge tenants at Cedar Hill Tiny Village. As per their ordinances, a tiny home is an R.V. with a surface area of 500 feet or less. These tiny houses can be a boon for those who stay nearby and want to embrace the minimalist lifestyle. 

Cuyahoga County, Ohio 

Cuyahoga County has expressly allowed ADUs with proper permits, unlike other Ohio counties. However, one cannot use these accessory dwelling units as permanent residences. You can only use it as a secondary residence. 

Columbus, Ohio 

Though Columbus welcomes tiny houses, this county does not allow tiny houses to be used as permanent residential spaces. The zoning regulations and building codes in Columbus and its surrounding suburbs consider permanent living in a tiny house illegal. This is because the tiny houses are smaller than Ohio’s permitted tiny house size. 

 

Final Take: 

Now that you are aware of Ohio’s various tiny house regulations, you can make informed decisions, avoid potential setbacks, and ensure compliance. If you want to buy tiny house kits for sale in Ohio, you are at the right place. We are an online directory where you will find a comprehensive list of many trusted tiny house builders in the U.S. and Canada. Connect with the builders via TinyHouseMe, and we will place you in front of the line for the builders. Request a quotation now

 

Tiny House Communities in Florida: An Overview

Florida’s sparkling waters and beaches make it a favorite tourist destination like none other. Not just that, but tiny house communities in Florida have also become all the rage in 2023. The best part about these communities is that the regulations and legislation are quite favorable, making it the go-to place for tiny home enthusiasts. If you plan to purchase tiny house kits for sale, Florida should be at the top of your list. 

Although Florida is a more tiny-house-friendly state compared to most other U.S. states, you should ensure compliance with the various regulations and laws of the state. Furthermore, building a tiny house on wheels on your own can be a daunting prospect, depending on the place of your residence. So, make sure you know the requirements before delving right in. 

Here, we will look closely at how you can put up tiny house kits for sale in this beautiful sunshine state and the various nitty-gritty involved with tiny house communities in Florida. So, let’s begin.

 

Are tiny house communities legal in Florida? 

Here, you should note that no statewide regulation governs Florida’s tiny houses. So, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that tiny house communities are well accepted in Florida. But, still, it is advisable to check with the county where you are moving whether tiny houses are permitted in that county or not. You should also check the construction and zoning rules at the local jurisdiction office to check whether you can build a tiny house there. 

Is there any tiny house community in Florida? 

Well, the short answer to the question is a resounding YES. Some counties in Florida are very open to tiny house communities. However, depending on the particular county and city, the restrictions for using tiny houses might change. 

Which counties in Florida allow tiny houses? 

Here is a list of the most popular communities in Florida where you can witness tiny house communities:

  • Sarasota 
  • Pasco 
  • Hamilton 
  • Dixie 
  • Orange 
  • Suwannee 

It must be pointed out that though the counties mentioned above consider tiny houses a welcome addition, the rules and regulations governing tiny houses largely vary from one county to another. So, make sure you know the various nitty-gritties before picking up a location for putting up your dream abode. 

What should be the minimum size of tiny houses in Florida? 

While some U.S. states do not have any minimum square footage requirements for tiny houses, Florida is quite particular in this aspect. For example, a home size of a minimum of 1000 to 1500 sq. ft. is mandatory in some Florida counties. On the other side of the spectrum, some counties only permit tiny units with a maximum area of only 375 sq. ft. So, make sure to jot down all the places with no minimum square footage requirements. 

Most people who want to embrace a minimalist lifestyle in Florida prefer living in a small space having an area not more than 1000 square feet. Some counties with the shortest minimum housing sizes include Dixie County, St Petersburg, and Pasco County. Consider the minimum square footage carefully while drawing up your home design. 

Where can you park a tiny house in Florida? 

If you like traveling to different new places, Florida is the place for you. 

Depending on the building code of your particular area, you might be permitted to put up a tiny home on a permanent foundation right in your backyard. These houses benefit families and are popularly known as ADUs or accessory dwelling units. 

On the other hand, if you want to travel in your tiny house, you can visit any recreational vehicle site in different parts of the state. It must be pointed out here that some RV parks require you to set up a tiny house on a foundation if you want to stay there for a substantial period of time. For instance, if you intend to stay in Sarasota County for over 45 days, you must build your tiny house on a foundation. 

Most popular RV parks in Florida are a must-visit 

  • Key Largo Kampground and Marina 
  • Rustic Sands Resort Campground 
  • Paramore’s Campground 
  • Twelve Oaks Recreational Vehicle Resort 
  • Fleetwood Recreational Vehicle Park 
  • Naples Recreational Vehicle Resort 
  • Kozy Kampers  

How to erect a tiny home in Florida? 

Before you start the take-off run to set up a tiny home in tiny house communities in Florida, here are a few factors worth considering. Let’s take a look at them. 

Things to consider:

  • Decide which type of tiny house you would like to reside in: Do you aspire for a tiny house on wheels with which you can travel to the place of your dreams? Or do you want to erect a tiny house on a permanent foundation? Or, are you looking for an accessory dwelling unit that can double as a private retreat or a guest home in the backyard? 
  • Next, you should check the legal requirements for your tiny abode. The respective offices at the city hall and county courthouse can come in quite handy. 
  • Once you have chosen an exquisite location, you can start making arrangements such as preparing your backyard, purchasing a lot, or renting a spot in a recreational vehicle park. 
  • Contact certified tiny house builders via TinyHouseMe, to find the most functional tiny house kits for sale.
  • And once it’s completely built, you can ask for quotes for home insurance. 

 

Final Take: 

TinyHouseMe bridges the gap between multiple trusted tiny house builders and potential tiny home buyers. We would connect you directly with the builders and place you in front of the line for the builders to ensure priority response. Reach out to the builders via TinyHouseMe and procure state-of-the-art tiny house kits for sale at highly competitive prices. Sign up with TinyHouseMe now!

 

What Do You Need To Own a Tiny House on Wheels?

There are many things unknown about tiny homes. One of the most asked questions about tiny houses is whether one needs a permit or title for a tiny house on wheels. You might NOT need a permit for a tiny house on wheels (THOW). A permit isn’t involved when you buy or build the THOW, but there are a few things that you might require, and regulations are still applicable, including certifications and titles. Buying a THOW can be daunting, so you must connect with several builders and compare the models before making an informed decision. TinyHouseMe is the online directory connecting you with multiple home builders across US and Canada. We showcase some of the best models of tiny houses on wheels to make the purchase easier and simplify your search. This article discusses a few points you need to know before owning a house on wheels.

 

What do you need to own the THOW legally?

A home on wheels is built by mounting and building the structure on a trailer. It’s a must for all trailers to have titles, and therefore when you own a tiny house on wheels, it needs to have a title. However, the title applies only to the trailer and not the entire structure. Therefore, a title for the THOW is necessary, but you also need a certification for the tiny house. RVIA and NOAH are the only two certifications recognized in America currently. If you have a tiny house on wheels, then getting certifications from either of these is necessary, as it means the structure meets the minimum building standards. 

These certifications are not necessary when building a tiny home, but when you decide to stay in RV parks or tiny house parking locations, these certifications are essential. 

For a tiny house on wheels, you might not need a permit, but a title and certification are required, and to legally own the THOW, a title is a must.

What do you need to build a THOW legally?

Social media can portray that building a THOW is a weekend hobby and a fun thing. This is untrue. How can you build a home without plumbing, insulation, and electrical systems? When you plan to own a home on wheels, you need a title, but you must follow building codes when you plan to live full-time. However, the building codes might vary depending on state and county. Many places are tiny home friendly, while others are still warming up to the idea of miniature homes. In such a situation, a trusted tiny home builder can help. Sign up at TinyHouseMe to connect with a local builder. We instantly set up an appointment with your matched builder to get things moving faster.

If THOW didn’t come with a title – how can you get one?

A title for THOW is used for showing ownership and registering the structure. If you plan to move house on public roads and are concerned about the ownership of the THOW, then a title is important. The title is vital even if you plan to sell the tiny house on wheels.

If you have bought a used THOW, then there are two ways you can get a title. The first and best choice is to ask the previous owner to procure a duplicate title. The second option is to send an application for a bonded title. 

The first choice is ideal, and it’s fairly easy to get a duplicate title from most states. The owner must mail proper paperwork and provide a check for the duplicate title fee to the state DMV. It takes about a week, and the duplicate title will get mailed to the specified address. 

Here are some of the basics for getting a title for the tiny house trailer: (it can vary depending on state and county, but it’s pretty much standard).

  • Connect with the local DMV
  • Documentation 
  • Wait for approval
  • Get a surety bond
  • Apply for a bonded title

However, if the previous owner does not get you the title, you can apply for a bonded title. 

 

A bonded title means the previous owner never provided you with a title, and there is no proof of ownership. The DMV will now check the theft records, and you must get a surety bond. This also means that if the original owner comes with the title and claims the trailer, the surety bond company will provide them with a fair price, and you will be accountable for paying back the bond company, as per Surety Solutions. This can also mean that you are living in someone’s stolen THOW.

Purchasing a tiny house on wheels without a title is a big NO! Since mobility homes have a higher chance of getting stolen, buying a THOW from just anyone is a bad decision. That’s why you should only opt for trusted tiny home builders to buy a THOW. At TinyHouseMe, we connect you with established tiny home builders offering off-the-shelf and customized tiny homes, with proper blueprints, and floor plans. The homes are competitively priced, and many also have a warranty certificate. 

If you are looking for help to plan your tiny home project, sign up at TinyHouseMe. Our experts will help you find the right builder and offer expert assistance to finance the project.

Tiny Home on Wheels – Building Mistakes That You Need To Avoid

Are you considering joining the tiny home movement and downsizing your life and expenses by embracing tiny home living? It’s a good idea as according to Forbes, the average 200 sq. ft. tiny home can cost as low as $30,000, while the traditional American home costs much more. Not to forget, tiny homeowners don’t have to deal with mortgages. Conventional homes are just bigger spaces with high utility bills. When you invest in a tiny home manufactured by an established builder, you pay less and live comfortably but have lower utility bills to pay at the end of the month. However, when building a tiny home on wheels, you are likely to make a lot of mistakes, especially the DIYers without any prior experience. Most issues are fixable, but preparation is the key to avoiding these mistakes from the start as much as possible. 

TinyHouseMe connects you with established and experienced builders who can design and customize your tiny home on wheels and also prevent you from making building mistakes that threaten the durability, strength, and functionality of the structure.

 

Overlooking headers 

Many inexperienced tiny home builders and DIYers forget about the headers, which can cause structural problems. The doors and windows have a gap in the support structure, and taking a strong wall and putting a huge hole in it, can decrease structural integrity. You need to find a way to balance the weight and not forget about the headers. Ignoring the header, leads to additional issues and you will have to spend extra money on the tiny house. An experienced builder will know about the importance of a header and will not make the mistake of ignoring it.

Go beyond the trailer width 

Talking to the builders about designing the tiny home on wheels and putting in a lot of creative layouts and storage ideas for customization is great. However, maximizing everything begets problems like poor weight distribution, and you don’t realize how easily you go beyond the legal width limit. According to TinyHouseBuild, a trailer’s legal road limit width is 102” or 8.5 feet. A good builder will advise you to build over-the-wheel wells to maximize the interior width without surpassing the legal limit. While designing your customized tiny home, you and the builder should consider the sheathing, siding, roof overhang, drip edge, etc., on both sides. If you don’t plan these things with your builder during the building phase, you need to spend extra renovating your space again.

Furthermore, consider the exterior width features like venting pipes, which add more thickness to the structure. Although wider tiny homes are more common and wide-load permits are inexpensive, extra-wide tiny homes on wheels are challenging to tow by inexperienced homeowners. Additionally, finding a secure parking spot is difficult due to these factors, and parking under the radar is trickier, especially when the mobile home is harder to relocate.

Tiny homes are affordable – BUT don’t try getting it dirt-cheap 

The tiny home movement gained momentum because they are comparatively more affordable than a traditional house. According to Media Company, Work+Money, the median cost of a conventional US home is 10 times more than that of a tiny house. However, expecting a tiny home to be dirt-cheap and going for DIY structures to reduce costs is not a smart move. Rather research tiny home builders and purchase a high-quality tiny home on wheels after comparing the models and prices. TinyHouseMe connects you with established builders across the US providing premium-grade tiny homes at competitive prices. TinyHouseMe can offer expert help to plan and finance the tiny home if you don’t have funds to pay upfront. Remember that while investing in a THOW, put your money on a good trailer. A customized trailer is a secure foundation and supports the overall load of your tiny home. The trailer needs to be strong enough to support the weight of the tiny home.

Not using lightweight materials 

Cement siding and too many tiles are heavy for a tiny home on wheels. The THOW are moveable structures, and lightweight materials are imperative. Consider alternatives like steel roofing panels for the roof, expanded polystyrene boards for insulation, vinyl for flooring, birch plywood sheets for the interior structure, and lightweight steel studs for the exterior. A local builder can help build your tiny home, customized to suit your needs. For competitive pricing, connect via TinyHouseMe and book an appointment at the earliest.

 

A Thumb Rule – Ask for help if you need it!

We don’t expect you to understand the entire building process of a tiny home. Installing electrical and plumbing systems are challenging and must be done right to avoid future complications. You need to plan out the structure of your tiny home with the builders before taking the plunge. At TinyHouseMe, you have the privilege to connect with multiple builders and look into their latest manufactured models to compare and choose what works best for you. If the models please you visually, the price suits your budget, and the specifications meet your needs – then connect with the builder instantly via TinyHouseMe. We place you in the frontline for the builder and ensure a faster response. Connect today!