The Tiny house Blog

How to Start a Tiny House Community

Updated on:
March 27, 2024
how to start a tiny house community

Image Source: Canva

To start a tiny house community, you'll first need to select an affordable location that complies with zoning laws, is near basic amenities, and has readily available utilities.

Next, you should familiarize yourself with local zoning laws and building regulations; this includes obtaining permits and ensuring your plans align with these requirements. Also important is rallying financial support for the project; this could be through crowdfunding, business partnerships or starting a non-profit for grants and donations.

Ultimately, you'll need to set up utilities – water, sewage, electricity, and gas – in each tiny house. If you're interested in pacing ahead with grit, you'll find much more in-depth knowledge awaits you.

Identify a suitable location

Before you can dream of constructing your own tiny house community, it's crucial to pinpoint a suitable location that's not only affordable, but also complies with zoning laws and is conducive to the lifestyle you envision. Start by conducting an extensive search in your local area and beyond. You might be surprised to find unused plots of land or underdeveloped areas that could potentially serve as the foundation for your dream community.

Reach out to real estate agents who specialize in rural land development. They'll have the knowledge and experience to guide you in the right direction. Remember, location isn't just about the plot of land; you also need to contemplate the proximity to essential amenities such as stores, schools, and hospitals.

Another key factor is accessibility. How easy is it to reach the location? Is there reliable public transportation? You also need to think about the availability of utilities in the area. It's all well and good finding a picturesque location, but if there's no access to water, electricity, or internet, you'll face significant challenges down the line. Plan wisely and your tiny house community dream can become a reality.

Comply with all necessary zoning and building regulations

Once you've pinpointed the perfect location for your tiny house community, it's time to get familiar with the local zoning and building regulations. These laws are essential, as they dictate what can and can't be built in specific areas, and they vary greatly from place to place. You'll need to comprehend the rules for your chosen location thoroughly.

Start by checking with the local government office. They'll provide you with a zoning map and the associated codes. Grasping these codes can be challenging, so don't hesitate to ask for clarification. You're looking for zones where residential development is allowed. Some areas even have particular regulations for tiny houses.

Building regulations are another critical aspect. These rules ensure that structures meet safety standards. Consider hiring a local contractor familiar with these regulations to help guide your building process.

Keep in mind, rules change. It's essential to stay up-to-date with any modifications to guarantee your community remains compliant. You may also need to apply for various permits and pass inspections during construction. It's hard work, but following these rules will make your tiny house community a reality.

Gather support for funding

To turn your dream of a tiny house community into reality, it's important to rally financial support. Let's start with the basics: you can't build a community without funding. So, you've got to get creative in finding ways to finance your project.

Consider launching a crowdfunding campaign. Sites like Kickstarter or GoFundMe offer platforms where you can share your vision and gather donations. You'll want to craft a compelling story that resonates with potential donors. Highlight the benefits of tiny house living, such as the economical and sustainable aspects, to draw interest.

You may also look into starting a non-profit organization. This opens doors for grants and tax-deductible donations. It's a more complex route, but can be worth it for the potential financial benefits.

Another option is to approach local businesses for contributions. Show them how your community could benefit the local economy and they might be willing to chip in.

Get permits

Obtaining the required permits is an essential step in creating your tiny house community. This process can seem challenging, but it's necessary and achievable with the right approach.

Firstly, you'll need to understand the local zoning laws and building codes in your desired location. These regulations vary greatly from place to place, so it's important to do your research. Reach out to your local planning department, they're there to help and can provide you with the necessary information.

Once you've got a handle on the regulations, it's time to apply for your permits. This usually involves submitting detailed plans of your tiny house community, including the layout, number of houses, and any communal facilities. You may also need to provide evidence of adequate parking and accessibility features.

Set up the necessary utilities

Image Source: Canva

After obtaining the necessary permits, your next step involves establishing the essential utilities for your tiny house community. You need to make sure that each tiny house has access to water, sewage, electricity, and possibly gas. These utilities are vital for your community to function efficiently and provide a comfortable living environment for its residents.

Begin by contacting your local utility companies to discuss your project and comprehend the requirements and costs involved. Depending on the location of your community, you may need to drill a well for water, install a septic system for sewage, and run power lines for electricity. If you're in a remote area, consider renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines for electricity.

Don't overlook internet and phone services. In today's digital age, these are considered essential utilities too. Check with local providers for the best options.

Lastly, always remember to hire licensed professionals for all installation work, especially for electrical and plumbing tasks. This ensures the safety and quality of the installations. By setting up your utilities correctly, you're laying a strong foundation for your tiny house community.

Build a group of engaged members

Once your utilities are firmly in place, it's time to rally a group of like-minded tiny home enthusiasts who are excited about the prospect of living in a tiny house community. This is the heart and soul of your project, and it's essential to build an engaged, committed group from the outset.

Start by reaching out to networks of people who are already interested in tiny house living. You can find these groups online, at local community events, or through word of mouth. Be open and transparent about your vision for the community. Remember, it's not just about finding people to fill houses, but about building a community spirit.

Next, consider holding regular meetings to discuss plans and progress. This encourages active participation and gives everyone a sense of ownership. Don't be afraid to delegate tasks based on people's skills and interests. This not only speeds up the process, but also helps members feel valued and involved.

Lastly, maintain open lines of communication. Regular updates, whether through email, social media or face-to-face meetings, keep everyone abreast of developments and cultivate camaraderie. Remember, a strong, engaged group is the cornerstone of a thriving tiny house community.

Move into your community

Now that you've built your tiny house community, it's time to make the exciting move and settle into your new neighborhood. This shift period may be challenging, but remember, it's a chance to create a home that's uniquely yours.

Start by familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings. Explore the communal areas, get to know the layout of the land, and establish where your utilities are located. This will help you navigate your new living space with ease.

Next, introduce yourself to your neighbors. Building strong relationships is integral to a thriving community, so don't be hesitant! Organize a welcome gathering or simply knock on doors to say hello. You're all in this together, after all.

Once you're settled in, start personalizing your tiny home. Whether it's hanging artwork or planting a small garden, make your space reflect who you are. Remember, though, as part of a community, it's important to respect the shared spaces and your neighbors' privacy.

Conclusion

Starting a tiny house community is no small feat, but with the right resources and passion, it's completely achievable. From scouting the perfect location to rallying a dedicated group of members, every step brings you closer to realizing your dream.

Remember to navigate zoning laws, secure funding, and cultivate a strong sense of community. Your tiny house community isn't just about providing unique housing—it's about creating a dynamic, sustainable lifestyle. So, what are you waiting for? Let's get started!

Did you enjoy this post and find value in it? Share it with your friends with the links below!

Need more info? Get

By submitting your email, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms

Subscribe to get the latest news

This is a new way to communicate faster than any communication platforms

Thank you!
Your submission has been received! Check your inbox for an email from info@tinyhouse.com with more info!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form. Please try again or email us at support@tinyhouse.com. Thanks!
Want all the latest tiny house inspo and news?

Get free resources, updates, tips & tricks, and special offers by joining the Tiny House Plan Newsletter.

No items found.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers — straight from the author — for the most common questions about this article.

Don't see your question here? Contact us!
No items found.

Join The Tiny House Community

Occasionally: Community Events, DIY Tips and Tricks, Tiny House Guides
Never: Junk or Spam and we don't sell or misuse your email.
Welcome to the fam! We're excited to have you join the community.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form. Please try again or use the form below.