Here's a summary of LA County's Tiny Home requirements:
Tiny homes, defined as dwelling units of 400 square feet or less (excluding lofts), are recognized in Los Angeles County as viable housing solutions. These structures must comply with Title 26 of the LA County Building Code, whether built on a permanent foundation or chassis with wheels. The code establishes specific requirements: a minimum of 120 square feet for the main room, 7'6" minimum ceiling height, and detailed emergency egress standards for sleeping areas.
Safety and structural requirements are particularly stringent in LA County, especially in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas. These include fire-resistant construction standards, specific ventilation requirements (minimum 5 air changes per hour or 30 cubic feet per minute per occupant), and comprehensive energy efficiency standards. The structures must also meet seismic safety requirements, particularly crucial for homes built on slopes steeper than 33.3%, and must be designed to withstand significant wind loads common in foothill areas.
Utility connections in unincorporated LA County areas require coordination with Southern California Edison for electrical service and SoCal Gas for natural gas, though recent regulations may restrict new gas connections. Water service must be arranged through local water districts, and sewage connections must comply with LA County Sanitation District standards. Alternative systems like solar power, battery storage, and greywater systems are permitted but must meet specific county requirements.
The permitting process involves multiple agencies including Building & Safety, Public Works, Health Department, and Fire Department. LA County's Disaster Recovery Ordinance provides specific pathways for temporary housing on disaster-affected properties, with potential conversion to permanent structures. This process, while complex, can be streamlined during disaster recovery scenarios.
Site requirements focus heavily on safety and accessibility, including adequate clearance for emergency vehicles, specific fire department access standards, and brush clearance requirements in fire-prone areas. The county also mandates compliance with ADA standards for permanent occupancy and sets specific setback requirements based on zoning classifications. These requirements reflect LA County's emphasis on creating safe, sustainable housing solutions while maintaining emergency response capabilities.
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