HomeMy WebLinkAbout8/21/2018 Item 17, Codron (2)
City of San Luis Obispo, Council Memorandum
August 21, 2018
TO: City Council
FROM: Michael Codron, Community Development Director
PREPARED: Doug Davidson, Deputy Director
VIA: Derek Johnson, City Manager DJJ
SUBJECT: Item #17 – Tiny Houses on Wheels on R-1 Properties
A Councilmember asked some general questions about tiny houses after reading public agenda
correspondence:
1. Why is the maximum size for a tiny house 450 sq. ft.?
Moveable tiny houses are considered an additional type of accessory dwelling unit allowed as
accessory to a single-family residence. The maximum size of 450 sq. ft. was chosen since it would
clearly limit tiny houses to “accessory” uses in conjunction with larger single-family homes,
however, in practice it is anticipated that tiny houses on wheels will be smaller in size. The Council
could decide to reduce the maximum size allowed for a tiny house. For comparison sake, the
minimum size for an efficiency unit is 220 sq. ft., while the largest unit in the Wineman Hotel is
approximately 300 sq. ft.
2. How are tiny houses connected to utilities?
Tiny houses on wheels do not require a separate utility meter, but do require connection to the
City water and sewer system. City staff will work with an applicant on ways to make these
connections less costly, but not at the expense of public health or safety. Methods to reduce costs
could be the placement of the tiny house in proximity to existing utility lines to limit trenching or
using a power pedestal where all utilities, with the exception of sewer, may be located together to
consolidate service.
3. What if the tires are removed from a tiny house?
If the wheels are removed, then the tiny house would need to be on a foundation that meets State
requirements for manufactured housing.
4. What are the owner occupancy and inspection requirements for tiny houses?
The property must be occupied as the owner’s primary residence as shown on the deed. A covenant
agreement will be recorded on the property allowing for an annual inspection to verify compliance
with the owner occupancy requirement and health and safety codes.