Tiny Home Regulations in TN

Tiny houses are experiencing a surge in popularity, attributed to their attractive tax benefits, reduced utility expenses, and affordable purchase prices nationwide. Among tiny house enthusiasts, Tennessee has emerged as a prominent choice, owing to its affordability, favorable tax regulations, and picturesque natural landscapes. Therefore, TN presents itself as a perfect option for you. However, it is essential to be well-informed about the tiny house regulations in TN before finalizing your decision.

It’s worth noting that each county and city in Tennessee may have distinct regulations and codes concerning tiny houses as each local jurisdiction is responsible for adopting and enforcing their own codes. Some local governments or county governments decide to opt out of having any building codes. The cities and counties also seem to act independently of the building code implementation choices of the other. For more information on the TN code maze, you can read more on how TN building regulations function. To ensure a smooth and compliant process, it is crucial to contact your local municipality and familiarizing yourself with the legal requirements.

Is It Legal to Have Tiny Houses in Tennessee?

Yes, tiny houses are legal in Tennessee. However, it’s crucial to be aware that regulations and zoning restrictions can differ based on the specific county or city. Therefore, before building or living in a tiny house in Tennessee, it’s essential to thoroughly check and comply with the local regulations. At Esh’s, we offer different models of code compliant tiny home shells, ready to be finished out and made into a dream house.

Do You Need a Permit to Build a Tiny House in Tennessee?

Building permit regulations in Tennessee are not generally stringent, making it a tiny home-friendly state. While there is no statewide law specifically for tiny homes in Tennessee, some counties and cities have established their own regulations regarding tiny house construction and placement. 

Here are some of the Tennessee cities with specific tiny house regulations you need to know.

Tiny House Regulations in Knoxville, TN

Knoxville is one such city in Tennessee that fully accepts the International Residential Code (IRC) for tiny houses. In other words, Knoxville’s regulations permit tiny houses as long as they comply with the requirements specified in the IRC.

Tiny House Regulations in Nashville, TN

Nashville is another tiny house-friendly city in TN. The definition of a tiny house in Nashville, TN is a little different than in other Tennessee cities. In Nashville, they define tiny houses as detached structures. Therefore, if you want to have a tiny house on your property, it has to be built behind an existing structure.

Tiny House Regulations in Shelby, TN

Another tiny house-friendly area in Tennessee is Shelby County. Tiny house regulations in Shelby County are a little different than the rules in other cities. In order to have a tiny house in Shelby County, the land you will place your tiny house on has to be as small as 1 acre and must comply with the local building codes.

How to Get a Tiny Home Permit in Tennessee?

Regrettably, as of now, Tennessee lacks comprehensive statewide laws specifically addressing tiny houses. Instead, the classification of tiny houses often falls under the purview of the “modular building program,” a framework that necessitates your attention if you’re contemplating the establishment of a tiny house within the state.

How Much Does it Cost to Get a Permit for Tiny Homes in Tennessee?

Typically, the cost of permits depends on the amount of money that will be spent on the construction. If the construction cost is less than $5000, the fee will be $100. As the construction cost increases, the associated fee will also become more expensive.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Tiny House Permit in Tennessee? 

Obtaining a tiny house permit in TN usually follows the same process as obtaining a building permit. Therefore, acquiring a residential building permit in TN typically takes around 10 days.

Can You Permanently Live in a Tiny Home?

A concise response to this question is yes. You can permanently live in a tiny house in Tennessee, provided that your tiny house complies with the codes and relevant building standards within the city where you intend to construct your tiny house.

How Many Square Feet Does a House Have to be Considered a Tiny House?

In Tennessee, tiny house size rules vary by county or municipality based on adoption of the International Residential Code. Tiny homes are often under 400 sq ft, including interior and loft. Classification is subjective, influenced by purpose, zoning, and local norms as mentioned earlier

What is The Minimum Square Footage for a House in Tennessee?

Although Tennessee is considered a tiny house-friendly state, there are no statewide regulations specifically governing tiny houses. In areas that have adopted the International Residential Code, like Knoxville, a tiny house generally must not be smaller than 120 square feet according to this code. Additionally, the land intended for your tiny home must be at least 320 square feet in size.

Is 800 sq ft a Tiny House?

The answer is no. Typically, in most cities and counties within Tennessee, a dwelling is classified as a tiny house if it falls within the range of being larger than 120 square feet but not exceeding 400 square feet. This established parameter reflects the emphasis on compact living and efficient use of space that characterizes the tiny house movement. 

What is Usually Required in Tiny Home Regulations in Tennessee?

To comply with building codes and regulations in Tennessee, a tiny house must adhere to several requirements that extend beyond the basics. Alongside the familiar elements, additional criteria come into play:

• Plumbing: Essential for comfortable living, a tiny house must include a standalone bathroom.

• Stairs: Access to elevated spaces is permitted through stairs, ladders, ship ladders, or alternative means to reach lofts.

• Ceiling Height: The habitable living area must offer a minimum ceiling height of 6 feet 8 inches, while slightly lower clearances of 6 feet 4 inches are acceptable for bathrooms and kitchens.

• Windows: While a specific quantity isn’t mandatory, emergency exit standards must be met to ensure safety. Additionally, at least one bedroom should feature a window and a closet.

• Bedroom and Space Requirements: A functional bedroom with a window and closet, a room spanning a minimum of 70 square feet not intended for sleeping, as well as kitchens and bathrooms with a ceiling height of at least 6 feet 4 inches contribute to the comprehensive criteria a tiny house must meet to be up to code.

Can I Put a Tiny House on My Property in TN?

The most advisable course of action is to initially consult the zoning regulations applicable to your property’s location. If these regulations permit the placement of a tiny house on your property, you must still navigate other crucial steps and adhere to various codes, including building codes and necessary permits. It’s important to note that property tax is also applicable to tiny houses in Tennessee. Typically, the same tax principles that apply to regular houses are extended to non-movable tiny houses in the majority of counties and cities across Tennessee.

Counties And Cities have no Residential  Building Regulations

Some areas in TN have opted out of having building codes, have created their own building codes, or simply follow the state adopted building codes. Therefore, it is imperative that you check your local government for the current status of building codes in your area. It may be that you live in an area that has opted out completely. Below is table that lists the counties and cities that have no residential building regulations, or read more on how TN building codes function.

Conclusion

Unfortunately, there is no statewide regulatory code for tiny houses in Tennessee. Therefore, you need to consider and adhere to local city, county, and municipal regulations when deciding to own a tiny house in TN. In many areas of Tennessee, you may be required to comply with modular building programs, which often encompass regulations for tiny house construction as well.

In locations where specific international residential codes have been adopted, such as Knoxville, the process becomes clearer due to the presence of dedicated regulations for tiny homes. However, in other areas, it’s crucial to meticulously follow the required steps and become well-acquainted with the local building codes and regulations. If you’re looking for information in the surrounding areas, read our article about tiny home regulations in KY.

When it comes to owning a tiny house after completing all these processes, Esh’s Utility Buildings is here to help you build the most customizable and durable tiny house shells.