Tiny Home Pathway Checker
This quick tool now uses the same feasibility rules engine as the full property checker. Use the full checker for a stronger parcel-specific pre-check.
Property Pre-Check Result
Foundation tiny-home or small-dwelling pre-check
Based on the information entered, this California property needs a foundation tiny-home or small-dwelling pre-check. This is a low preliminary result because parcel records, local interpretation, utilities, fire access, and overlays still need official confirmation.
Likely starting authority
- Start by confirming whether the parcel is inside city limits or controlled by unincorporated county departments.
Key departments to contact
- Planning
- Building
- Assessor / GIS
- Utility Providers
Required official checks
- California HCD ADU Handbook
- HCD Tiny Home Information Bulletin
- 2022 California Residential Code Appendix AQ
- California Building Standards Commission Codes
- CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Severity Zones
- FEMA Flood Map Service Center
Possible concerns
- County is missing or not matched to the current data set.
- City or jurisdiction is missing.
- City versus unincorporated county jurisdiction must be verified.
- Utility path is unknown.
- Unknown
Questions to ask the city/county
- Which department has jurisdiction over this parcel?
- What zoning district, overlays, setbacks, height, lot coverage, and parking rules apply?
- Which use category will the jurisdiction apply to this project?
- What drawings, reports, fees, and reviews are needed before plan submittal?
- Is the parcel inside city limits or controlled by unincorporated county planning?
- Will the structure be reviewed as a small dwelling, manufactured home, modular home, factory-built home, or another category?
- Are there minimum dwelling size, foundation, utility, and inspection requirements?
- Which providers serve water, sewer, power, and gas for this parcel?
Documents to collect
- APN and assessor record
- Parcel map or GIS screenshot
- Zoning district and overlay notes
- Site photos and rough site plan
- Utility provider notes
- Written department links, names, and dates
- Concept floor plan, foundation approach, and manufacturer/building specifications
Suggested next steps
- Confirm the building-code path before ordering plans or a structure.
- Do not set a final budget until utility, septic, fire access, and plan-check requirements are clearer.
TinyHomeNavigator provides educational pre-check information only. Rules vary by parcel, zoning district, city, county, overlay, utility provider, fire authority, and environmental health department. Always confirm directly with the local planning department, building department, environmental health department, fire authority, and utility providers before buying land, designing, permitting, placing, or building any structure.