How many U.S. counties allow tiny homes as a dwelling?

269 of the 587 counties reviewed so far (46%) allow tiny homes as a dwelling. Each answer is a verbatim quotation from the official page, independently re-checked (latest 2026-09-12). Counties not yet researched are not listed.

What conditions usually apply?

Read the note under each county: most answers carry conditions such as a permit, a septic connection, a time limit, or a minimum size, and cities inside the county set their own rules. Always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

Which states have the most counties that allow tiny homes as a dwelling?

North Carolina (100), Colorado (64), California (58), New Mexico (33), Maine (8).

Bolthole Index rulebook research · checked 2026-09-12

U.S. Counties That Allow Tiny Homes

269 of the 587 counties the research fleet has reviewed so far — 46% — allow tiny homes as a dwelling, on a foundation or on wheels, usually with conditions (minimum size, a permit, a septic connection). Each entry quotes the official page and was re-checked by an independent reviewer. Counties not yet researched are not listed.

Method: the research fleet reads each county’s official pages, extracts the rule as a verbatim quotation, and a second independent reviewer reopens the source to confirm it. 587 counties reviewed so far; the list grows as research continues. Rules change — treat this as a verified starting point, not legal advice. See also: Counties With No Building Permit Requirement → See also: Counties With No County-Wide Zoning → See also: Counties With No Building Codes and No Zoning → See also: Counties Where You Can Build Your Own Home → See also: Counties Where You Can Live in an RV on Your Land → See also: Counties With No Minimum Home Size →

269 counties across 9 states — open a state for its full cited list

North Carolina100 of 100 Colorado64 of 64 California58 of 58 New Mexico33 of 33 Maine8 of 16 Alabama2 of 67 Tennessee2 of 95 Illinois1 of 102 Kentucky1 of 120

Top 50 by Index Score

Keep exploring

Every county here has a full profile — water, land prices, hazard safety, seclusion, and the rest of its building rules. Start from the best states to live off-grid, the cheapest states for off-grid land, or search your own spot.

General guidance, not legal advice. Off-grid, building, and land-use rules are often set at the county level and change often. Verify with your county and state before acting. Data reviewed 2026-06-26.