Mt. Shasta Allows THOW's - 2025 Update

A Big Step Forward for Tiny Home Living in Northern California

If you’ve been considering a tiny home on wheels in Northern California, there’s exciting news.

The City of Mt. Shasta has officially adopted new regulations that allow Tiny Homes on Wheels (THOWs) to be used as permanent housing. WhoooHoo!!

This is a major step forward in addressing housing affordability and expanding alternative housing options in the area.

And the best part?

We’re located just a short drive away, making it easier than ever to explore your options.

📍 Where Can Tiny Homes Be Placed in Mt. Shasta?

The ordinance allows THOWs in several ways:

✅ As a Primary Residence

You can live in a tiny home as your main house in certain residential zones.

✅ As an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)

Tiny homes can be placed on a property as a secondary unit, similar to a backyard ADU.

✅ As Part of a Tiny Home Village

  • Up to 9 tiny homes per property

  • Allowed in certain residential and commercial zones

  • Designed as small, community-style living spaces

This opens the door for both homeowners and developers.

🏡 What Is a Tiny Home on Wheels (THOW)?

Under the new ordinance, a Tiny Home on Wheels is:

  • A fully functional living space (kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area)

  • Up to 400 square feet (excluding lofts)

  • Built on a trailer chassis and towable

  • Designed to look like a traditional home (not an RV)

These homes must also meet building and safety standards, including insulation, electrical, and plumbing requirements.

⚠️ Important Rules to Know for City of Mt. Shasta

While this is a huge opportunity, there are still key requirements:

🔌 Utilities Are Required

  • Must connect to electricity

  • Must connect to water and sewer (or approved systems)

  • Off-grid systems must include solar + battery storage (generators alone are not allowed)

🏠 Residential Look & Design

  • Must resemble a traditional home

  • No slide-outs like RVs

  • Must include:

    • Residential-style siding

    • Double-pane windows

    • Proper roof pitch

🕒 Long-Term Living Only

  • Tiny homes must be used for long-term housing

  • Short-term rentals (like Airbnb) are not allowed

🚗 Parking & Placement

  • Each unit must have at least one parking space

  • Must be placed on a properly prepared pad with:

    • Level surface

    • Anchoring

    • Entry steps or porch

    • Landscaping

View the Official Mt. Shasta Ordinance

For those who would like to review the full details directly, the official City of Mt. Shasta ordinance is available below.

👉 View the full ordinance:
https://www.mtshastaca.gov/media/6291

📍 Why This Matters for Our Clients

At Forever Tiny Homes, we’re located nearby in Cottonwood, CA — and we’re already helping clients navigate:

  • Where tiny homes are allowed

  • How to set up your property

  • Choosing the right model for your goals

Because every city and county is different, having guidance makes a big difference.

🌿 What This Means for Buyers

This ordinance creates real opportunities for:

  • First-time homeowners

  • Downsizers

  • Rental property owners (long-term)

  • Families looking to add an ADU

  • Investors exploring tiny home communities

Mt. Shasta is now one of the growing number of California areas recognizing tiny homes as a legitimate housing solution.

Thinking About a Tiny Home in Mt. Shasta?

If you’re considering placing a tiny home in Mt. Shasta or nearby areas, we’re happy to help you explore your options.

👉 Start by building your quote here:
https://www.forevertinyhomes.com/pick-a-forever-size

Or feel free to reach out with any questions — we’re here to help every step of the way. - (530)-356-5191

Forever Tiny Homes