Where Can You Put a Tiny Home, Park Model RV, or Modular Home?

It’s one of the most common questions we get:

“Where can I put this?”

Whether someone is looking at a tiny home on wheels, a park model RV, or a modular home, the assumption is usually the same—that there’s a clear answer or a list of approved locations.

The reality is, there isn’t.

Why There’s No Simple Answer

Rules around housing placement aren’t universal. They vary not just by state, but by county, and even by city.

Take Florida for example—there are 67 counties, and each one has its own zoning regulations. On top of that, individual cities within those counties can have their own rules layered on top.

That means what’s allowed in one area may not be allowed just a few miles down the road.

It’s also why when we’re asked, “Where can I place this?”, the honest answer is:

It depends on your specific property.

Why We Don’t Have a “List”

We understand the frustration. It would be easier if there were a master list of approved locations—but maintaining something like that just isn’t realistic.

Zoning regulations:

• Change over time

• Differ by municipality

• Depend on how the home is classified (RV, modular, etc.)

• Can vary based on lot size, utilities, and intended use

Even if a list existed, it could quickly become outdated or misleading.

And when it comes to something as important as placing a home, relying on outdated information can create bigger problems down the road.

What You Can Do: Steps to Get Answers

While there’s no universal map, there is a process—and following it will get you much closer to a clear answer.

1. Start with Your Property (or Intended Property)

Before anything else, you need to know:

• The exact address or parcel ID

• The zoning designation of the property

Zoning is what determines what’s allowed—not the home itself.

2. Do Some Initial Research

Most counties and cities have online zoning tools or GIS maps where you can:

• Look up your property

• Identify zoning classification

• Review general land use guidelines

This won’t always give you a complete answer, but it’s a good starting point to understand what you’re working with.

3. Contact the Local Zoning or Planning Department

This is the most important step.

Reach out directly to the city or county zoning department and ask specific questions based on your situation. For example:

• Can I place a tiny home on wheels on this property?

• Are park model RVs allowed for long-term use?

• Can I add a modular home or ADU?

• What are the requirements for utilities, setbacks, or foundations?

Every jurisdiction will have different answers, and getting it directly from them is the only way to know for sure.

4. Understand How the Home Is Classified

Not all homes are treated the same.

• Tiny homes on wheels and park model RVs are typically classified similarly to RVs

• Modular homes are considered residential structures built to building code and placed on a permanent foundation

That classification plays a major role in what’s allowed on your property.

5. Ask About Use—Not Just Placement

Even if a structure is allowed, how you plan to use it matters.

Be sure to clarify:

• Full-time living vs. seasonal use

• Short-term rental restrictions

• Whether it can be used as an ADU

Sometimes the home is allowed—but the intended use is not.

6. Get It in Writing (When Possible)

If you’re moving forward with a property or project, it’s always a good idea to:

• Request written confirmation

• Save emails or documentation from zoning officials

This gives you something to reference later and helps avoid miscommunication.

Where We Fit Into the Process

We’re here to help guide you through the process, explain the differences between home types, and point you in the right direction.

But when it comes to what’s allowed on a specific property, that authority always comes from the local jurisdiction—not the builder.

Final Thoughts

If you’re early in your search, it’s completely normal to want a simple answer. But with zoning, there really isn’t a one-size-fits-all response.

The good news is, once you understand the process and know who to contact, getting those answers becomes much more straightforward.

And starting there—before you commit to a home or a property—can save you a lot of time, money, and frustration.