Tiny House Living in Montana: Rules and Regulations

Learn about the rules and regulations for parking and living in a tiny house in Montana.

Tiny houses offer a unique and sustainable way of living that appeals to many seeking a minimalist lifestyle. However, understanding the rules and regulations for tiny houses can be complex, especially since they vary by state and locality. In this blog post, we'll explore the rules and regulations concerning where you can park and live in a tiny house in the state of Montana.

Rules and Regulations in Montana

Montana has embraced the tiny house movement by implementing specific laws and regulations to ensure safety and livability. The state adopted Appendix Q of the International Residential Code (IRC) for tiny houses on December 7, 2019. This appendix includes guidelines for construction, safety, and zoning, ensuring that tiny houses meet minimum standards for habitation.

Zoning and Building Codes: Tiny houses on a permanent foundation must comply with local building codes and zoning regulations. These codes are typically based on the International Building Code (IBC) or the IRC. For tiny houses on wheels (THOWs), they are classified as recreational vehicles (RVs) and must adhere to RV standards. THOWs can generally only be used for residential purposes in designated RV parks or campgrounds.

Where Tiny Houses Can Be Built, Parked, and Lived In: Tiny houses on a permanent foundation can be built on private land, provided they meet local zoning laws. THOWs face more restrictions and are usually limited to RV parks or specific areas designated by local ordinances. Some rural areas may offer more flexibility for tiny house living.

House Types in Montana

Montana recognizes various types of housing, including single-family homes, multi-family homes, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Tiny houses can fit into these categories depending on their construction and use.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Tiny houses can be considered ADUs if they are built on a permanent foundation and comply with local zoning and building codes. This allows homeowners to add a tiny house to their property as a secondary dwelling unit, providing additional living space or rental income.

Counties in Montana that Allow Tiny Houses

Several counties in Montana have specific rules that permit tiny houses. Here are a few:

  • Gallatin County: Gallatin County, which includes Bozeman, allows tiny houses on foundations and has specific zoning regulations for them. The county defines tiny houses as dwelling units under 600 square feet.
  • Missoula County: Missoula County permits tiny houses on foundations and has adopted zoning regulations that accommodate them. The county defines tiny houses as dwelling units under 600 square feet.
  • Park County: Park County, which includes Livingston, allows tiny houses with a maximum of 400 square feet.
  • Other Counties: Various other counties and municipalities may have their own regulations, so it's essential to check with local authorities before proceeding with your tiny house plans.

Tiny House Communities in Montana

There aren’t currently any tiny house communities that we know if in Montana. You can add one or check out other location in Tiny Home Builders Communities

A Sample of Tiny Houses For Sale in Montana

We know of 5 tiny houses in Montana. Here is a sampling of them.

Pickup truck tiny house

Pickup truck tiny house

Summer's end sale! ALL OFFERS WELCOME! Brand new 2024 model Fits all makes all models full size trucks. All steel reinforced frame. 2 beds 1 sink 1 toilet 1 stove Call or text Walter@ Tiny House Technology Phone 4 0 6- 4 9 0- 5156 20k cash or best realistic cash offer! MAKE OFFER TODAY! PRICE INCLUDES TOTAL CUSTOM PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION ON YOUR TRUCK! LOCATION IS MONTANA. not...

Learn more about this Pickup truck tiny house for sale.

2024 MOUNTAIN SLEEPER

2024 MOUNTAIN SLEEPER

Brand new 2024 "MOUNTAIN SLEEPER" Must sell make cash offer today! Sleeps comfortably up to 2 adults or about the size of 1 twin size bed! Custom special order sanded and sealed beetle kill blue stain pine interior. Plush heavy duty indoor outdoor carpet. Nice remote control interior led lights. 4 nice interior storage shelves. 12 nice interior storage/stowaway pockets. Super bright led e...

Learn more about this 2024 MOUNTAIN SLEEPER for sale.

Brand New Wildfire Cabin: Rustic 384 sq.ft. Retreat, Ready for Sale

Brand New Wildfire Cabin: Rustic 384 sq.ft. Retreat, Ready for Sale

Our company, Oasis Park Models, is selling the Wildfire Cabin, perfect for both recreational use and full-time living. These cabins are brand new, never lived in, and ready for immediate sale! This cabin also comes with furnishings shown in the video. We have multiple cabin styles in different locations that are available—contact us for more details! Key Features: - Spacious Layout: With a 10'...

Learn more about this Brand New Wildfire Cabin: Rustic 384 sq.ft. Retreat, Ready for Sale for sale.

Beautiful Tiny on Wheels-Pricing Update!

Beautiful Tiny on Wheels-Pricing Update!

Built by Rolling Homes (wheelsonthehouse.com) in December of 2022, this tiny on wheels is easy to move to your dream location! Updated with a brand new Navien tankless water heater and fully winterized for chillier climates with an insulated skirting. Amenities include Fridgidaire stainless steel refrigerator, GE Steam HE washer/dryer, Senville ECO mini-split for both heating and cooling, electric...

Learn more about this Beautiful Tiny on Wheels-Pricing Update! for sale.

Charming ESCAPE Tiny Home

Charming ESCAPE Tiny Home

Now available - Charming ESCAPE Tiny Home for Sale – Perfect for Minimalist Living! We have 2 units available that were lightly used for corporate housing and a 3rd unit that was used as an Airbnb. Please note that the tiny homes are no longer at the location pictured. Discover the beauty of tiny living with this stunning ESCAPE Tiny Home! This thoughtfully designed home offers the perfect b...

Learn more about this Charming ESCAPE Tiny Home for sale.

Conclusion

Living in a tiny house in Montana is an exciting and viable option for those looking to downsize and simplify their lives. While the rules and regulations can be complex, understanding them is the first step towards making your tiny house dream a reality. For more information on tiny houses in Montana, visit Tiny House Marketplace.

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