Nevada County Hearing Addresses Tiny Homes Ordinance

The Nevada County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday approved an ordinance (4-1) allowing tiny homes on wheels to be used as permanent residences. The goal is to provide a lower cost housing option for residents to address higher housing demand in the county.

Tiny homes on wheels are no larger than 400 square feet and include a kitchen, bathroom and sleeping areas. 

The ordinance, presented by Planning Director Brian Foss, aims to allow tiny homes on wheels as single-family dwellings, second units, or components of housing clusters. It includes detailed provisions to ensure compliance with zoning laws, health, and safety regulations. If adopted, it would mark a significant step toward addressing the county's housing challenges by diversifying available options for residents.

“Tiny homes represent a flexible solution,” Foss stated, “meeting the needs of individuals and families seeking affordable and sustainable living arrangements.”

Community Voices

Proponents of the ordinance emphasized the potential of tiny homes to alleviate the housing shortage, provide affordable options, and foster a sense of community.

Beth Moore, a retired teacher and longtime Nevada County resident, voiced her support. “I’ve seen young people leave this area because they can’t afford to stay,” she said. “Tiny homes could offer them a way to build a future here.”

Others highlighted the ordinance’s potential to help those experiencing homelessness. “Legalizing tiny homes would provide a lifeline for many struggling families,” shared Skyler Bright, a resident who recently transitioned into a tiny home.

Concerns Raised

Despite strong support, some attendees expressed reservations about the proposal. Fire safety emerged as a critical issue, with several speakers pointing to Nevada County’s high wildfire risk. Densely forested areas and limited evacuation routes pose significant challenges for emergency planning.

“Adding more mobile dwellings will exacerbate existing evacuation challenges,” warned one resident. “We need to prioritize safety in all housing decisions.”

Infrastructure strain was another point of contention. Skeptics argued that allowing tiny homes could overwhelm local utilities, including water and septic systems. Opponents also voiced concerns about neighborhood aesthetics, fearing that a proliferation of tiny homes might alter the character of existing communities.

Provisions for Safety and Compliance

To address these concerns, the ordinance includes stringent health and safety requirements. Homes must adhere to recognized building certifications, connect to utilities like water and septic systems, and comply with density regulations. These measures aim to balance innovation with safety and sustainability.

Foss reassured attendees that the county had carefully considered these factors. “We’ve built safeguards into the ordinance to ensure compliance and minimize risks,” he said. “Our goal is to expand housing options responsibly.”

Broader Implications

The ordinance’s implications extend beyond housing. Local nonprofits, such as Earth Justice Ministries, praised the proposal for its potential to demonstrate compassion and innovation.

“This is about more than just housing,” said a representative from the organization. “It’s about building a community where everyone has a chance to thrive.”

Still, some residents urged caution. “We need to ensure this doesn’t create more problems than it solves,” argued one participant, emphasizing the importance of measured implementation.

What To Expect

The newly adopted ordinance is similar to one currently established in Placer County and other areas, and prohibits the use of recreational vehicles (RVs) as permanent housing. RVs are designed for temporary use and built to different standards, making them unsuitable for long-term occupancy. This distinction ensures that all housing options adhere to the safety and durability requirements necessary for permanent living.

Tiny homes on wheels, however, are permitted in all zones where traditional housing is allowed. They can serve as primary dwellings, accessory dwelling units (ADUs or “granny units”), or as part of a dwelling group, provided they comply with density requirements. Additionally, the ordinance expands options for grouping tiny homes on wheels by allowing them in the Medium Density Residential (R2) Zoning District, which permits up to six units per acre with a development permit.