From the conventional bricks-and-mortar homes sprawled across vast estates to the compact, intentional spaces of tiny homes, our living situations reflect our lifestyle choices.
As more and more people are discovering, the latter presents an intriguing blend of minimalistic living and freedom, a departure from the mainstream.
However, the transition to a tiny home comes with a burning question: where can you put a tiny home? This is one of the most important considerations of tiny home ownership. And here at Boxd Living, we’ll help you navigate the decision to find the perfect location.
In this guide on where to put a tiny home, we'll traverse the landscape of various locations, exploring the nuances of zoning laws, size considerations, budget, and even the idea of permanence. Join us on a unique journey that could help you find the perfect landing spot for your tiny abode.
Where Can You Put a Tiny Home?
We’re not going to waste any time. Where can you put a tiny home? When it comes to deciding where to nestle your tiny home, you're not limited to one option.
The beauty of the tiny living movement is the flexibility and freedom it provides. From traditional backyards to embracing the rural life or joining a like-minded community, the possibilities are as expansive as your imagination.
Below, we’ll unveil the 4 most common tiny home locations based on our experience selling them here at Boxd Living.
Residential Backyards
One of the most popular choices for setting up a tiny home is in the backyard of a traditional property. This option is particularly appealing to those who enjoy the perks of suburban life, but crave the cozy simplicity of a tiny home.
Whether it's used as a primary residence, a guest house, or an income-generating rental, a tiny home in the backyard seamlessly combines the best of both worlds. But remember, this option depends heavily on local zoning laws and regulations, which we will dive into later in this guide.
Tiny House Communities
Tiny house communities have been sprouting up across the globe, fuelled by the growing appeal of minimalist living. These unique neighborhoods offer a supportive and shared living environment for tiny home enthusiasts.
Often complete with shared amenities like communal gardens, clubhouses, and recreational areas, these communities promote a sense of belonging and connection often lost in the hustle and bustle of modern city life.
That being said, many individuals take the tiny home route to go off the grid and withdraw into their own personal escape - plopping down in a bustling community may not be for you. You’ll be better off with this next option…
Rural Land
If the charm of a secluded life speaks to you, placing your tiny home on a rural piece of land might be the perfect option. This typically means you’ll need to budget for the plot of land - but trust us, it’s worth it.
Think about the peace and bliss of escaping to acres of untouched landscape, complete tranquility, and a connection with nature that's almost poetic. Just imagine waking up to the sunrise over a lush field, or winding down with a magnificent, unobstructed view of the stars. For some, this lifestyle is the ultimate goal.
RV Parks and Campgrounds
For the nomadic at heart, the opportunity to pack up and move with the seasons is a captivating notion. With their tiny home on wheels, many enthusiasts choose to settle in RV parks or campgrounds.
These venues typically provide utilities like water, electricity, and sometimes internet, making them convenient spots for transient living. Plus, the ever-changing scenery keeps life vibrant and adventurous.
Factors Influencing Where to Put a Tiny Home
Now that you know where you can put a tiny home, where should you put yours?
As mentioned earlier, choosing the right location for your tiny home isn't a one-size-fits-all scenario. It's a multi-faceted decision that requires a keen understanding of several critical factors. Let's explore these in detail.
The Size and Type of Tiny House
The size and design of your tiny home can greatly impact where you can place it.
A compact, mobile tiny house may find its perfect spot in an RV park or campground, while a larger, more permanent structure might be better suited for a residential backyard or rural land.
Considering your tiny home's dimensions and mobility is the first step in finding the right location.
Zoning Laws
Navigating the maze of zoning laws and building codes can be challenging, but it's a crucial step in determining where you can legally place your tiny home. And oftentimes, this is one of the most limiting factors to where to put a tiny home.
Regulations vary widely, even within the same country or state. Here in Canada, some areas may classify tiny homes as accessory dwelling units (ADUs), while others may consider them mobile homes or RVs. It's essential to research and understand the specific laws in your chosen area.
Your Budget
Your financial situation will also play a significant role in deciding where your tiny home will be situated. From the cost of land to potential site preparation, utilities, and local taxes, various expenses need to be considered and budgeted for.
Of course, all this must be balanced with the cost of a tiny home itself - which is undoubtedly the biggest expense of this transition to a new way of living!
Climate Considerations
The climate in your chosen location can have a significant impact on your tiny home living experience.
Harsh winters, sweltering summers, heavy rainfall, or high humidity can all affect not just your comfort but also the longevity and maintenance of your tiny home.
Make sure your tiny home is built to withstand the specific weather conditions of your chosen location. Fortunately, we’ve equipped our tiny homes for sale in Canada with R-Values insulation that keeps you comfortable in any weather - so if you partner with us for the project, this needn’t be a huge concern!
Convenience and Lifestyle
Consider your daily lifestyle and convenience when choosing a location.
Are you close to work, grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and other amenities? Is being close to family and friends important to you?
Your tiny home should complement your lifestyle, not complicate it.
Will This Be a Permanent or Temporary Location?
Are you looking to plant roots or live a more nomadic lifestyle? Your answer will influence the type of location you choose.
A permanent location might require more upfront work and investment, like installing utilities and prepping the land, while a temporary location offers flexibility and the freedom to move when you please.
Renting the Land vs Owning the Land Your Tiny Home Sits On
Finally, consider whether you want to rent or own the land on which your tiny home will sit. Both options have pros and cons.
Renting might offer more flexibility, especially if you're still exploring tiny living. In contrast, owning land provides a sense of permanence and can be a sound investment in the long run.
Remember, choosing the right location for your tiny home is as much an emotional decision as it is a practical one. Listen to your heart but also take the time to do your research. The perfect spot is out there, waiting to be your tiny piece of the world.
Finalizing Your Location: Preparation and Installation
After considering all the factors of where to put a tiny home, you've finally chosen the perfect spot. But hold your horses, the process isn't quite complete yet. Before you start living your tiny house dream, there are a few more steps to take.
Preparing the Site for Your Tiny Home
Before your tiny home is placed, the site may need some preparation. This could include clearing the land, levelling the ground, and possibly laying a foundation, depending on your tiny house design and local regulations.
You might also need to consider access points for the delivery and placement of your tiny home, as well as any potential obstacles, such as trees, power lines, or buildings.
Professional Installation vs DIY
Whether you choose to have your tiny home professionally installed or go the DIY route will depend on your skills, resources, and the complexity of the setup.
Professional installation can save you time, ensure your home is set up safely and properly, and might even be necessary for insurance purposes.
However, if you're handy and your tiny home is relatively straightforward to install, doing it yourself could save some money.
Utilities and Services Connection
Your tiny home will need connections to utilities and services. This may include electricity, water, sewer or septic, gas if applicable, and possibly even internet or cable.
Each of these connections will have its own requirements and processes, which could include permits, inspections, and fees.
Remember, off-grid tiny homes will have different needs, such as solar panels, composting toilets, and rainwater collection systems.
Closing Thoughts on Where to Put a Tiny Home
We hope this conversation has offered you clarity and left you inspired to find the perfect location for your miniature house. Deciding where to put your tiny home is a journey that requires research, careful consideration, and a bit of heart.
Remember, it's not just about finding a place to park your home, but about creating a lifestyle that brings you joy, peace, and a sense of fulfillment. And we’re honored to play a small role in that here at Boxd Living - your trusted provider of modular homes for sale in Canada.
We also have backyard offices and other small-space solutions to help you do more with less. If you don’t already have your tiny home, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about what we can do for you - including getting your tiny home delivered to your chosen location in less than 60 days.
At this point, though, it’s time we wrapped up our conversation on where to put a tiny home. After all, we’ve given you a lot to think about! When done right, your tiny home location will become more than just a place on the map. It will be your haven, your retreat, and your little corner of the world.
