Park model tiny homes in San Diego County, California

What San Diego County allows

The County of San Diego now recognizes a qualifying Tiny Home on Wheels as a dwelling unit in unincorporated county territory. Under the September 4, 2025 Director's Determination and current County guidance, a THOW may be used as either a primary dwelling or an accessory dwelling when the property, home and installation meet the County's zoning, permitting, construction, fire and site requirements.

• The parcel must comply with allowable zoning density and other applicable land-use requirements
• The THOW must provide permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation
• County guidance states the THOW must be under 430 square feet, with an optional loft subject to the County's published limit
• Certification must come from an approved agency and document ANSI A119.5 compliance plus County of San Diego THOW requirements
• A permit from Planning & Development Services is required before installation
• Project review may include fire access, septic or sewer, grading, flood, stormwater, electrical and right-of-way requirements
• The unit must be installed so it cannot move from the approved location
• County inspections are still required; third-party certification does not replace local permitting or inspection

How the process generally works

1. Confirm the property is in County jurisdictionThis pathway applies to unincorporated San Diego County. If the property is inside an incorporated city, confirm that city's rules instead.
2. Confirm zoning, density and intended useWork with County Planning & Development Services to confirm whether the THOW will be used as a primary residence or ADU and that the parcel can support the proposed dwelling under applicable zoning and density rules.
3. Confirm the exact model documentationThe County requires a certification statement from an approved agency showing compliance with ANSI A119.5 and County THOW requirements. NOAH is listed among approved agencies, but buyers should confirm the exact documentation for the specific Snake River model before purchase.
4. Prepare the permit package and sitePlans must show the project scope, plot plan, THOW requirements and certification. Depending on the property, additional review may be needed for utilities, septic, fire access, grading, stormwater, flood or other site conditions.
5. Complete delivery, installation and inspectionsAfter permits and site requirements are in place, delivery and installation can proceed. County inspections and any required fire-district sign-off must be completed before occupancy.

Source and verification

This page is based on the County of San Diego Planning & Development Services Director's Determination on Tiny Homes on Wheels dated September 4, 2025, plus the County's current Tiny Homes on Wheels permitting guidance.

Last verified by Snake River Tiny Homes: September 12, 2026

This page is provided for general information and is not legal advice. Zoning rules, building requirements and individual parcels vary. Buyers should confirm current requirements and model documentation directly with San Diego County Planning & Development Services before purchase.