Several months ago, I decided to do a little bit of research on the trend of Tiny Houses that is gaining popularity across the nation, especially among younger free spirits and retirees that want to travel in a different way. So, I sat down and started to do my homework. Unfortunately, at the time, I could find only a handful of resources on these miniature domiciles. Very few cities and counties in Colorado had addressed the issue and most of the tiny home ordinance enforcement was on case-by-case basis. This made for a lot of confusion and frustration for Tiny House Owners who wanted to enjoy their chosen lifestyle.
Since then, things have changed.
TINY HOUSE JAMBOREE
On August 5th, the Tiny Home Jamboree took place in Colorado Springs at the USAF Academy Campus. Originally it was to be held close by, however, the attendance was so great that the organizers were forced to move. On one hand, large numbers for any gathering of enthusiasts is great to see. On the other, however, the growing popularity has forced cities and counties across the state to examine and create legislation for what are now classified as a sort of an RV.
GOVERNMENT RESPONSE
Unfortunately for Tiny House owners, government bodies across the state seem to be reacting in a knee-jerk fashion and creating ordinances that make it difficult to find a place for their home. Jenna of tinyhousegiantjourney.com tells of her story across Colorado trying to find a place to stay and hearing of municipalities who “just had a meeting about this last week”. Most are still adhering to existing ordinances that lump Tiny Houses with RV’s which prevent owners from living in something with wheels.
CAN I BUILD A TINY HOME?
Although those with trailer-style Tiny Houses are still fighting, nearly every county in Colorado has an unincorporated area that an owner can build and live on so long as they own the land, have water and sewage access, adhere to various International Residential Codes(IRC), and get the proper permits. This allows for many owners to find permanent places for their new Tiny House. Unfortunately, special zoning and permits are still required for multiple dwellings on the same parcel of land.
DO YOUR RESEARCH ON TINY HOME ORDINANCE
If you are just passing through Colorado, remember that Tiny Houses on wheels are literally “Mobile Homes” and fall under various ordinances depending on the county and city. Treat it as though you are driving around a special use trailer and call ahead. Find out which cities, campgrounds, and RV parks will let you stay for a short time(less than a week) or long term(more than a month). With a few calls in the areas you want to go, you should be able to find a suitable and amenable place to stay, even if it’s farther from popular activities than you would like. Remember to be personable to the people you call; you are setting an example for Tiny House owners who call after you and an irate RV park owner is even less likely to change his mind of you griped at him for being closed-minded.
If you want to make Colorado your permanent home, contact your county and city seat. You may have to jump through a hoop or two, but be patient. They are trying to figure it out too. Make sure that you have the proper permits and codes. Work with the system and help the city and county councils to understand how great Tiny Houses can be. You will see the benefits later on.
Colorado governments are having to adapt to this new and growing trend, as public demand grows, governing bodies will grow with it.
Feel free to call True Performance Real Estate today and any questions you might have about purchasing a Tiny Home in Colorado!
Call: 303-317-6311