Nevada County adopts 'tiny homes on wheels' ordinance after lengthy public debate

Nevada County supervisors voted to adopt a new ordinance that allows a defined class of “tiny homes on wheels” to be used as permanent dwelling units where the underlying zoning density permits.

The measure, drafted by county planning staff and recommended by the Planning Commission, passed 4-1 on a roll call vote after more than two hours of public comment and a long presentation from county planners. The ordinance treats tiny homes on wheels as dwelling units when they meet technical, safety and utility standards and when they remain consistent with the parcel’s allowed density.

Staff said the ordinance targets a particular type of structure—a wheeled unit no larger than 400 gross square feet, registered with DMV and built to specified insulation, anchoring and construction standards—rather than every RV or trailer. “A tiny home on wheels is . . . no larger than 400 gross square feet,” Principal Planner Tyler Barrington read during his presentation, quoting the draft code language.

The board also required additional follow-up: staff was directed to study broader “all homes on wheels” options (including RVs, trailers and similar vehicles) and return with proposals and a one‑year progress report to allow the board to review outcomes and unintended consequences.

Why i…