Many Oregonians are taking advantage of new regulations allowing most property owners to add a tiny home to their property. Tiny homes come in many shapes and sizes but are generally 500 square feet or less. Depending upon their structure, they may be considered permanent or temporary. Those interested in constructing a tiny home on rural or urban property in Oregon should review the legislation covering all aspects of these units.
Types of Tiny Homes in Oregon:
Temporary tiny homes are built on a chassis or frame, and many of these units have wheels. Owners literally wheel them onto the property, attach them to limited utilities, and then move them later as they desire. For property owners seeking adventure, these homes provide the greatest flexibility to pick up and move to the next incredible sunset. Most temporary homes are regulated by city municipalities or county building codes. One limitation is for certain–since they are made to move on the road, these tiny homes cannot be wider than 8.5 feet, although an over-dimension permit may be available.
Permanent tiny homes are attached to regular foundations. All aspects of the structure, starting with the foundation, must meet Oregon’s state building code or federal standards. The good news is that a permanent tiny home meets the requirements as an “accessory dwelling unit” (ADU). Oregon recently implemented legislation that requires any city with a population greater than 2,500 or a county with a population greater than 15,000 to allow for the development of at least one ADU for each detached single-family dwelling within the urban growth boundary. Of course, the ADU must also fit onto the property after set back provisions and easements are considered.
Tiny Home Excavation Checklist:
- Can you get to the property? Regardless of whether you plan to haul in a temporary tiny home on wheels or construct a permanent home, you’ll need easy access to the property. Our excavation teams can clear trees and brush as well as build temporary and permanent driveways.
- How will you access utilities? Building on the rural property will come with unique challenges. You’ll need to decide if you want to connect to nearby utilities if they exist, install in-ground water tanks and septic systems, or if you’ll be using compost systems and above-ground water storage units.
- What drainage challenges exist? Depending on the property’s characteristics, adding a home structure may disrupt the natural flow of water on the property. In many cases, homeowners will need some culverts or swales to redirect water properly while preserving the natural environment.
- What type of foundation will you need? Any tiny home will need a solid, level foundation to sit upon. Temporary structures may work well on a firm gravel bed, while a permanent structure likely requires a cement slab. Either way, leave it to the professional excavators to dig and fill the foundation appropriately to avoid sinkholes or uneven ground that could crack or damage your tiny home in the future.
- Will you be landscaping the property? Many owners choose tiny homes because they want to be closer to nature. However, that doesn’t mean it has to be left in its original condition. Our excavation teams can discuss possibilities for creating ponds, water features, or level land for farming.
If you’re considering building a tiny home in Oregon, contact Excavation Oregon.
At Excavation Oregon, we’re experienced with the terrain throughout Southern Oregon and beyond. We can examine your property and guide you about what it will take to excavate the area for your construction project. We will also work with you and your contractor to create roads or driveways required for construction teams to access your property easily. Contact us today for a free estimate.
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