One of the main advantages of a tiny house or a mobile home is that you can save a lot of money. And tiny home communities in Georgia provide you with the most affordable living options. Therefore, Georgia is a good option if trying to downsize from a home or apartment. Still, you must carefully plan your relocation into a tiny house to comply with local and state zoning laws.
Most of Georgia allows tiny homes, but you’ll need to check various local regulations and rapidly evolving municipal policies. In addition, you’ll need to know about the housing regulations in your city and state to adhere to building and safety standards.
So, which are the cities that allow tiny home communities in Georgia? What are the types of tiny homes you can build? How can you build a tiny house in the state? Here’s more info on tiny home communities in Georgia!
Are there tiny home communities in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia does have tiny home communities in some counties.
Tiny homes must comply with municipal zoning regulations, which differ greatly by jurisdiction and apply to all homes and recreational vehicles. Local zoning laws often regulate these factors: land use, location, height, width, type of foundation, number of floors, and minimum lot and building sizes. Therefore, getting approval from the local government to locate the tiny home within its authority becomes a vital initial step for the builder and potential tiny home owner.
Are tiny homes in Georgia legal?
There is no governmental regulation of tiny homes in Georgia. Each town and city can decide whether to permit it or not. Though they adhere to local laws and aren’t expressly prohibited, tiny houses are considered legal throughout the state.
The laws governing tiny homes differ greatly between cities. For instance, while there are multiple tiny home communities in Georgia, there are tight regulations regarding tiny homes in some areas of Atlanta.
Which are the counties that allow tiny homes in Georgia?
You can see tiny home communities in Georgia in these counties. However, there may be different restrictions on the use of tiny homes depending on the city and county.
- Atlanta
- Savannah
- Macon
- Albany
- Columbus
What are the types of tiny houses in Georgia?
The Georgia Department of Community Affairs defines tiny homes as single-family homes that are 400 square feet in size or less, excluding lofts. The division describes four different types of tiny houses.
- Recreational vehicles
- Residential (modular) Industrialized Buildings
- Manufactured (mobile) homes
- Site-built dwellings
Tip: Here’s more info on the types of tiny houses in Georgia!
What needs a tiny house to be up to the Georgia building code?
Tiny home communities in Georgia must follow a few restrictions under the state’s building code. A tiny house must have each of the following to achieve these requirements.
- A land area of at least 320 sq ft
- A minimum of 120 sq ft in size
- There should be at least one comfortable room with an openable window and a closet.
- Ceilings with a minimum height of 6’8”
- The size of non-sleeping rooms should be at least 70 sq ft
Tip: There are also some basic criteria you’ll need to meet for carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, emergency exits, light, plumbing, and ventilation.
Efficiency Dwelling Unit (EDU)
If you want to live in the smallest house possible, building an EDU might allow you to downsize even further (EDU). Every extra resident beyond two requires an additional 100 sq ft of space, and the living room must be at least 220 sq ft in size. You will also require these things.
- A kitchen sink
- A separate closet
- Refrigeration and cooking appliances
Where can you park your tiny house in Georgia?
It is one question that tiny home communities in Georgia are always concerned about. If you reside in Georgia, your city laws and zoning regulations will provide the solution. The municipal rules and restrictions determine where you can build or park your new tiny house. If you don’t have the space, you might be able to park your tiny house in your backyard or at a friend’s.
Does Georgia allow tiny houses on wheels?
Yes. Most locations in Georgia also permit tiny houses on wheels (THOWs). THOWs are subject to different rules than other tiny home communities in Georgia. These are some requirements you must fulfill.
- Design: If you choose a THOW, it must resemble a conventional living area.
- Interior area: The floor area is no more than 400 sq ft.
- Licensing: RVs and other mobile homes are subject to licensing and regulation by the Georgia Department of Transportation and your county’s vehicle licensing office.
- Living necessities: THOWs must have the bare minimum of accommodations and areas for cooking, sleeping, and personal hygiene.
- Size: THOWs must follow the standards established by the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association and the Georgia Department of Transportation.
- Skirting: The bottom of your THOW, including the wheels, must be skirted.
- Towing: Your THOW must get towed using a frame-towing hitch, fifth-wheel connection, or bumper hitch because it cannot move independently.
How can you build a tiny house in Georgia?
So, planning to build your dream home among tiny home communities in Georgia? But to do it legally in the state, you must follow the following checklist.
What to do
- Decide on the kind of tiny house you desire. Do you want the ease of a mobile THOW, or do you want to go full cottage core in your backyard?
- Understand the local laws and ordinances. Then, check the precise legal requirements for your tiny house using the resources in your neighborhood library.
- Choose the right building firm. Some businesses specialize in building tiny houses. They are a terrific source for learning about the rules you must follow!
- Choose a location. You might build your little home in a larger backyard, or you may decide to relocate to a location with simpler to understand and follow zoning codes.
- Once the construction gets finished, you will need homeowners insurance. Though legally not necessary, a policy will protect your new tiny home from unforeseeable threats. Always compare the insurance policies and buy.
Getting home insurance for tiny home communities in Georgia
Are you planning to build your tiny home in Georgia? Even though it isn’t mandatory to have home insurance, it is safe to buy one to protect your tiny home from disasters. When choosing the ideal home insurance for your tiny home, you must be cautious. Also, you need to buy the most affordable home insurance.
That’s Way.com turns into your best friend. If you’re looking for a new home insurance policy, visiting our website or utilizing our app can help you quickly and conveniently compare rates. Combining your home and car insurance coverage can result in significant savings. Visit Way today to find the perfect home insurance plan!
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