Nixa considers code change to allow modular homes in R‑1 single‑family neighborhoods

Planning and Development Director Scott Gabbi presented a zoning-code amendment (Council Bill 2025‑36) on Nov. 12 that would add a definition for 'modular homes' and allow them as a permitted use in the R‑1 single‑family district while removing the separate RMHS modular-home zoning column.

Gabbi described modular homes as sections constructed off-site, transported to a site and fastened to a permanent foundation, and distinguished them from manufactured/mobile homes that have running gear and chassis. He said advances in modular construction, and related technologies such as 3‑D printing, make the change timely and could shorten construction times and reduce costs while maintaining homes on permanent foundations.

Staff told council the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval 5–0. Gabbi said the amendment does not change building-code requirements; modular units would still be installed to applicable codes and connected to utilities.

During the public hearing and council discussion, residents and council members asked whether the change would affect resale values in established neighborhoods, how homeowner associations or covenants would interact with the city code, whether the definition could be used to allow shipping-container dwellings, and whether 3‑D printed homes would be included. Gabbi said covenants and HOAs can still limit home types and that shipping-container conversions are different from the fully built modular units described in the proposed definition.

No final council vote was taken; the public hearing remained open for additional comment.