concept travel trailers

• What's My Car Worth?
• Buyer's Guide

Airstream and Studio F.A. Porsche Reveal the Camping Trailer of the Future

Designed to be pulled by an EV, the two companies' joint vision for a travel trailer debuted at the SXSW festival in Austin, Texas.

• Airstream and Studio F.A. Porsche have shown a concept travel trailer co-designed by the two brands.
• The collaboration is the result of an idea to create a stylish camping trailer that can be towed by a small SUV or an electric vehicle and be parked inside a garage when not in use.
• Styling combines elements that are quintessential Airstream, but with thoughtful elements including a pop-top roof to increase interior headroom.

"Our customer base is about twice as likely to own an EV than the general population," said Bob Wheeler, Airstream's CEO. "Towing a travel trailer cuts down on the range. Weight and aerodynamics play a big part in that."

Airstream has already been toying with the idea of electrification; the company unveiled the eStream concept last year. That trailer featured an electrified powertrain of its own which could be used to slowly adjust the trailer's location when it was unhitched from the tow vehicle or assist an electric-powered tow vehicle while on the move. And Airstream isn't the only brand considering what over-the-road travel looks like in an EV future. Rival RV manufacturers Winnebago and Bowlus are both working on eco-friendly travelers as well with electrified options.

"We understand this future is coming. It's already here and it's continuing to grow," Wheeler said, about the increasing number of EVs on the road. "We know that our owners do not park in campgrounds for summers or seasons; they're on the road."

While the Porsche-designed concept you see here does not feature such a powertrain, the design team took great care to maximize the trailer's aerodynamics. Rather than a rounded rear end like other Airstreams, the concept features a truncated, flat design that's better for aero but also allows for the inclusion of a hatchback setup that can open the interior of the trailer to the outside.

The trailer's completely flush underside is yet another attempt at making it more aerodynamic. The concept uses composite materials such as carbon fiber to help keep the weight down. Aluminum exterior panels are used here—just as they are on contemporary Airstream products—but the brand's rivets have been omitted in the name of reducing drag.

Purists might say that a rivetless trailer means it's not a true Airstream, but from the looks of it, enough of the brand's design cues have been included in the concept to earn its place in the brand's history books .

"Going into this collaboration, we knew that if we tied Porsche's hands we'd end up with what we already have," Wheeler said. "What we ended up with is beautiful, functional, and represents the brand."

The length of the concept is similar to a 16-foot Caravel camper trailer , but the concept is more compact and shorter in height, as it's intended to fit inside a standard garage when not in use. The trailer itself can be lowered on its suspension to fit through a garage door, while an insulated pop-top roof provides headroom inside the trailer when parked at a campsite.

Inside, the concept trailer's cabin is modern, with clean lines and smartly integrated features. The bathroom features a swivel door to save space, and the entire enclosure is covered by pretty bentwood trim. The kitchenette features a two-burner cooktop and an integrated sink; a flip-up countertop extender can be used when cooking or when more counter space is needed.

"The curvature and the softness is the most important thing," said Steffen Ganz, head of design for Porsche Design of America.

The dinette, which also folds into a bed, is situated at the rear of the camper's cabin and overhead storage bins omit traditional cabinet doors in favor of light-weight webbing. Overall, the interior design is what you'd expect from Porsche Design , and features clean lines, rounded edges, and plenty of chrome and carbon-inspired color schemes.

Neither company would say if the concept would eventually head to production, but Airstream's Wheeler acknowledged that the company is considering it for the future.

"We really fell in love with this thing during this process, and we're actively trying to figure out how we can produce it," said Wheeler. "We're challenging ourselves to find out how we can build this effectively, to produce something that's identical to this or very similar for the customer of the future."

If the trailer does make it past the concept stage, we expect it to wear a premium price tag. Airstream's current lineup already trades at the higher end of the RV marketplace. The brand's focus on premium materials and hand-built construction has earned it a reputation for longevity and garnered a fan base that has an expectation for quality—a virtue that those customers are clearly willing to pay for.

Drew Dorian is a lifelong car enthusiast who has also held a wide variety of consumer-focused positions throughout his career, ranging from financial counselor to auto salesperson. He has dreamed of becoming a Car and Driver editor since he was 11 years old—a dream that was realized when he joined the staff in April 2016. He’s a born-and-raised Michigander and learned to drive on a 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. His automotive interests run the gamut from convertibles and camper vans to sports cars and luxury SUVs.      

.css-190qir1:before{background-color:#000000;color:#fff;left:0;width:50%;border:0 solid transparent;bottom:48%;height:0.125rem;content:'';position:absolute;z-index:-10;} Recreational Vehicles .css-188buow:after{background-color:#000000;color:#fff;right:0;width:50%;border:0 solid transparent;bottom:48%;height:0.125rem;content:'';position:absolute;z-index:-10;}

View Photos of the 2023 Ford Transit Trail Van

From the Archive: Travels with Charles Kuralt

Airstream Goes #VanLife with the New Rangeline RV

View Photos of the Airstream Rangeline

Airstream, REI Collab on Adventure-Ready Camper

Winnebago e-RV Shows How to Electrify Road Trips

11 Coolest Things at Airstream's Heritage Center

View Photos of the Airstream Heritage Center

Airstream's 91 Years Are on Display in New Museum

This '80s Vanagon Camper Triggers Our Wanderlust

Winnebago Reveals Electric e-RV Camper Van Concept

porsche and airstream conceptualize a two-wheel travel trailer that fits in the garage

Porsche & airstream on concept travel trailer.

Porsche’s creative cogs are constantly whirring. First, the car company has unveiled its retro-futuristic NEBULA 928 car in collaboration with Daniel Arsham . Now, Studio F. A. Porsche, a subsidiary of Porsche AG, has teamed up with Airstream for a concept travel trailer that campers can park in their garage. The towable carbon-fiber pod mirrors the soft gray colors of the Porsche Macan, its buddy car, and both vehicles are planned to be showcased at Porsche’s SXSW exhibit between March 10th and 14th, 2023 together with the NEBULA 928 car.

Looking at the images, Studio F. A. Porsche and Airstream are thinking of an expandable roof for their two-wheel concept garage-fitting trailer. The design may stretch the look and feel of the space vertically, making it appear bigger than it is. Inside the roof, the rollable fabrics and portable stands are stowed. Campers can prop them up and once ready, the ensemble becomes a handy tent that extends the exterior, giving the vehicle shade from the sun on sunny days and a shelter for rainy trips.

Transformable furniture for more space

Studio F. A. Porsche and Airstream’s concept garage and travel trailer maximizes its interior to accommodate two people. The modern accents in design arise from the induction stove and sink that doubles as a chopping board through the removable lid. The warm burst of LED lighting is concealed in the interior’s edges from the front to the rear part of the vehicle.

The transformable bed saves up space as it retracts during the day to become two adjacent benches. When these benches are set up, campers can invite more people into the vehicle as the setting may be able to sit four people at once. A towable desk slash dining table appears from underneath the sofa bed, which also acts as the storage area of the concept travel trailer.

Lowering the concept trailer’s height

Throughout Airstream’s 90-year presence, its concept travel trailer with Studio F. A. Porsche marks the first garage-fitting design under its belt. The design team injects an automatic suspension in the chassis to allow the trailer’s body to lower and fit inside most home garages. This option simplifies parking the trailer in one’s constricted parking nook, particularly for those faced with local rules or a lack of convenient, secure off-site storage.

The concept travel trailer features aerodynamic improvements thanks to a redesigned rear shape that sheds air while the trailer is in motion and a flush underside that eliminates drag projections. The trailer’s automatic suspension alters its chassis height to reduce aerodynamic drag. The use of carbon fiber for its frame knocks off the concept’s weight, making it towable for smaller vehicles including electric ones.

inside Porsche and Airstream’s concept garage trailer

Porsche and Airstream’s concept travel trailer

project info:

name: Concept travel trailer

company: Studio F. A. Porsche , Airstream

CARBON FIBER (108)

caon’s aircraft seat uses 3D knitted merino wool for its semi-transparent, changeable cover

CREATIVE CAMPING (215)

Mobile units (97).

mobile solar container stores photovoltaic panels that fold and unfold like an accordion

PORSCHE (104)

Product library.

a diverse digital database that acts as a valuable guide in gaining insight and information about a product directly from the manufacturer, and serves as a rich reference point in developing a project or scheme.

• car design (791)
• electric automobiles (637)
• materials (65)
• recycling (323)
• car concept (357)
• space travel design (95)
• sculpture (351)
• turntable design (27)

designboom will always be there for you

Airstream rethinks the travel trailer for EVs and urban garages

Airstream has revealed a concept travel trailer designed with Studio F.A. Porsche and looking ahead to a time when many more travel trailers will be towed behind EVs. 

According to the two companies, the Airstream Studio F.A. Porsche Concept Trailer, due to be shown next week at South by Southwest in Austin in scale form, is the result of a “what if” collaboration that “incorporated elements from the design playbooks of both brands.”

Airstream Studio F. A. Porsche Concept Travel Trailer

The concept is the first “garageable” Airstream design in the company’s 90-year history, Airstream says, and it shows a “conceptual evolution” of its riveted aluminum look that reflects changing demographics in the RV market. With a pop-up roof and lowering suspension, city dwellers might be able to store the trailer in their residential garage.

The small-footprint Airstream concept aims for serious aerodynamic improvement versus the models that are currently produced. The pop-up roof enables a lower height, while aero is further helped by a lowering suspension, fewer rooftop protrusions (A/C moved to the floor rather than the roof), and a smaller frontal area.

“One intended result of these design modifications is a better towing experience optimized for towing with electric vehicles (EVs),” the companies stated in a release.

Such an idea, if it becomes a product offering, might fit in alongside Airstream’s eStream electric travel trailer revealed last year—adding the trailer’s own battery pack and propulsion system, so that the trailer might boost range and efficiency, no matter what the tow vehicle’s fuel.

Airstream eStream electric camping trailer

That vehicle used technology that its German affiliate Dethleffs developed with ZF in 2018 and 2019 and then tested with an Audi E-Tron Sportback , managing to beat its EPA range rating on a mountainous route while towing. 

The concept trailer also weighs less, due to the use of composite materials including carbon fiber, and a two-piece design for the rear hatch allows a hinge-up hatch and drop-down tailgate, with attachable awnings. At present, Airstream’s smallest model, the Basecamp, is 16 feet long and weighs about 2,650 pounds unloaded—good for vehicles with a 3,500-pound tow capacity, the company notes.

Studio F.A. Porsche brings Porsche Design to a vast portfolio of items ranging from household goods to architectural design and vehicles for various modes of mobility. 

It has the same parent company as Porsche, the sports car brand, so of course it will be shown at SXSW with a Porsche Macan tow vehicle. Porsche plans a fully electric version of the Macan for sale starting in 2024.

Contribute:

People who read this, also read:.

• EVs won't lose range towing Lightship L1 electric RV, company claims
• EV-optimized Airstream, range-boosting Lightship, utility-funded EV charging: Today’s Car News
• Utility proposes huge EV charging network funded by ratepayers
• Frozen: Sorting F-150 Lightning cold-weather fact from fiction

Share This Article:

Connect with the editor:.

Follow Us Today:

Green car reports newsletter.

Sign up to get the latest green car and environmental news, delivered to your inbox daily!

I agree to receive emails from Green Car Reports. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy.

Which electric truck detailed this week got a lower price and more range than originally announced? Is CEO Elon Musk costing Tesla sales? This is our look back at the Week In Reverse—right here at Green Car Reports—for the week ending April 6, 2024. In a first drive of the 2025 Porsche Taycan, we found that with improvements to performance, efficiency, and charging, this grand-touring electric sports car lives up to its original mission—and much more. Drivers of the Chevy Bolt EV may qualify for a $3,000 discount on the Chevy Equinox EV. It’s part of a limited-time...

Musk has floated the idea of revenue-generating self-driving taxis since 2019.

Tesla once mooted a new entry-level car with robotaxi capability, but it now appears only the latter will proceed.

EVs, PHEVs, and series hybrids make the most sense in different types of vehicles, according to one of Nissan’s top U.S. executives.

Tougher emissions targets will likely lead to more EV sales, but environmental groups say they're again a step behind California.

In a small set of these EVs, "production issues" in the modules of the battery packs can increase the chances of a fire.

Ford promises more hybrids but is delaying several key EVs. Are EV rejectors behind the times? And will EV sales hold up with the phaseout of incentives in Canada’s EV hotbed? This and more, here at Green Car Reports. Ford has delayed its next-generation electric pickup and 3-row electric SUV, while stepping up plans to offer hybrids, in a plan detailed Thursday. The automaker says it will add hybrid “offerings” to every gas-powered model in the lineup by 2030. Quebec is due to start phasing out its EV purchase incentives, with the amounts decreasing beginning next January...

Ford's next-gen electric vehicles have been pushed back while the automaker doubles down on hybrids.

Are EV rejectors simply Luddites out of touch with the future—and are tailpipes, like landlines, a sign of the past?

Canada's federal iZEV incentive program is set to expire in March 2025, too.

Chevy Bolt EV drivers could get a discount on the Equinox EV. The Silverado EV gets an arrival date and a price cut. And the Taycan holds true to the original mission of the Mission E. This and more, here at Green Car Reports. In a first drive of the 2025 Porsche Taycan, we found that with...

The Silverado RST First Edition will arrive “by mid-year,” according to Chevrolet, at a price of $96,495.

• Never Miss a Green Car Reports Story I agree to receive emails from Green Car Reports. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy. subscribe today

Our editors carefully select every product we recommend. We may earn a commission from these links. Learn more

Studio F. A. Porsche & Airstream Just Built a “Garagable” Travel Trailer

By: Tim Huber Published: Mar 09, 2023

Founded in 1972 by Ferdinand Alexander Porsche — the eldest son of Ferry Porsche and the grandson of the firm’s founder Ferdinand Porsche Sr. — Studio F. A. Porsche is a renowned German design house that’s been responsible for penning iconic designs such as the fabled Porsche 911. And for the Stuttgart studio’s latest endeavor, Studio F. A. Porsche has joined forces with American luxury travel trailer brand Airstream to produce a unique pop-up camper concept. 

Spanning 16.4’ in length, the Airstream x Studio F. A. Porsche Concept Travel Trailer is a single-axle camper that features an automatic suspension that allows the trailer’s chassis height to be adjusted in a bid to reduce aerodynamic drag.  This pop-up telescopic roof system also allows the body to lower into the frame, enabling the concept to fit inside a standard garage or parking space. Alongside its ultra-aerodynamic shape, the luxury travel trailer also boasts ample use of carbon fiber — factors that minimize the tow vehicle’s loss of range.

In addition to boasting accommodations for sleeping two adults, the concept also comes loaded with a wet bath, an L-shaped workspace, integrated rooftop solar panels feeding a Lithium-ion battery system, removable deployable awnings, a kitchen with a sink and induction cooktop, and a dining booth that converts into a queen-sized bed. The rear-end of the trailer has also been bestowed with a new drag-mitigating silhouette. The concept trailer also features a redesigned rear hatch that utilizes a new two-piece design and that opens up to provide panoramic views of the trailer’s surroundings, with the interior wall packing a set of fold-out reclining chairs. The concept also sports ducted air conditioning and a 10-inch-deep space beneath its floors that houses the trailer’s spare wheel, holding tanks, Lithium-ion battery, and hot water and heating components.

Thus far merely existing as a design exercise, the Airstream x Studio F. A. Porsche Concept Travel Trailer will be publicly unveiled tomorrow at the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin, Texas, where a 1:3 scale model of the concept will be presented. 

From Our Partners

This Merino Hoodie Is Designed To Last 3 Days Without Any Signs of Wear or Odors

Presented by Huckberry

Nike’s Air Max Dn Kicks off the Latest Innovation in Air Technology

Presented by Nike

The Best USA-Made Everyday Carry Essentials [VIDEO]

Presented by Gerber

More Campers & RVs

Mercedes-AMG’s Ultra-Exclusive CLA 45 S “Edition 1” Will Be Limited To Only 25 Units

By Tim Huber

Indian Rolls Out a Heavily-Updated Scout Motorcycle Lineup For the 2025 Model Year

Hyundai Unleashes an IONIQ 5 N-Based eN1 Class Cup Racer With Over 600HP

The Oldest Production Lamborghini Returns to Geneva for the 350 GT’s 60th Birthday

By Cameron Cardwell

Pagani’s Racing Sim Rig Mimics the Sounds & Sensations Of Driving the Huayra R Hypercar

Toyota Teases First Major Redesign in 15 Years with 2025 4Runner SUV

Porsche, Airstream Tag Team on ‘Garage-able’ Travel Trailer

Porsche's premier design studio helped Airstream build the first travel trailer in the company's 90-year history you can park in a garage.

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

When Airstream’s designers sought a “beautiful piece of industrial art” that was also “sleek, easy to tow, lightweight, low profile, and garage-able,” they decided to outsource some help.

Apply most of that jargon to a sports car, and the smooth, soft lines of a Porsche stand out right away.

The Airstream Studio F.A. Porsche Concept Travel Trailer is the result of a collaboration between the brands.

The aesthetics came out somewhere between an Airstream and Daft Punk’s helmets . The interior promises the finer things. You can tow it with an electric car , and it’s the first Airstream in the company’s 90-year history that you can park in a “normal garage.”

A video the two companies released with the announcement makes frequent use of the word “iconic.”

Airstream x Porsche Travel Trailer Details

What’s it got for nuts and bolts? To start, an automatic suspension in the chassis lowers the trailer body onto the frame, helping it fit through the garage door. From there, it’s got a “new rear shape” that aims to shed air while in motion. A “flush underside” should also help reduce drag. And in fact, Airstream says, the automatic suspension helps accomplish the same goal.

It prioritizes all that drag reduction for one main reason: so you can tow it with a small car or EV. That’s also the reason some parts are fabricated with weight-saving carbon fiber.

Airstream says the camper’s got generous windows and a rear opening system that “melds” the indoors with the great outdoors. And you can throw an attachable awning on the back to create your own patio.

The 16.4-foot, single-axle trailer sleeps two and comes with one available floorplan.

Studio F.A. Porsche’s Design Director Christian Schwamkrug speaks to the trailer’s significance in the release video. “We have a long history — Airstream: even longer than us. And what’s even more important is that both companies have come up with iconic vehicles. Airstream obviously with the travel trailer, and Mr. Porsche, our founder, was the designer of the legendary, iconic 911. So I think it’s a good match in that sense,” Schwamkrug said.

Pricing details on the Airstream Studio F.A. Porsche Concept Travel Trailer were not available as of this writing. Neither was a release date. You can sign up to receive more news on the trailer on Airstream’s website .

Electric Car Camping Just Got More Comfortable: Rivian Camp Mode

Rivian makes its trucks and SUVs even more camp-friendly with an awesome over-the-air update. Rivian Camp Mode is coming soon. Read more…

Sam Anderson is a staff writer at GearJunkie, and several other All Gear websites.

He has been writing about climbing, cycling, running, wildlife, outdoor policy, the outdoor industry, vehicles, and more for 2 years. Prior to GearJunkie, he owned and operated his own business before freelancing at GearHungry. Based in Austin, Texas, Anderson loves to climb, boulder, road bike, trail run, and frequent local watering holes (of both varieties).

Follow Us On

Subscribe Now

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!

Join Our GearJunkie Newsletter

Gear Top Stories Deals

Year End Bundle Deal: 95%+ off! *only 100 available

The tiny house blog, california's tiny home rules and regulations .

California has a number of resources available for those interested in living in a tiny home. However, the rules and regulations for tiny homes vary from community to community. Some places may have stricter requirements than others.

There are many tiny home communities in California. Many RV parks and campgrounds also allow tiny homes on their property. However, it is important to do your research before choosing a location for your tiny home.

This post will provide insights into California's tiny home rules and regulations. Read on to discover everything there is to know about tiny living in California. 

And if you want to go even more in-depth? We got you.

‍ Get the full 39-page digital book on all things California Tiny Home Rules and Regulations here.

Are tiny homes legal in California? 

Tiny homes are legal in California, but there are a few regulations to follow in order to live in a tiny home legally. There are two main ways to live legally in a tiny home in California: by obtaining a special use permit or by connecting your tiny home to an RV park. 

You can typically obtain special use permits through the planning department of your city or county. The process for getting a special use permit can vary depending on your location, but it generally involves completing an application and going through a public hearing. 

If you get approved for a special use permit, you will likely be required to follow certain restrictions, such as maintaining a minimum lot size or setting your tiny home back a certain distance from the property line.

What California counties allow tiny houses? 

Tiny houses are becoming increasingly popular in California as more people look to downsize their living situations. However, not all counties in the state are equally welcoming to these smaller dwellings. 

Here is a look at some of the California counties that allow tiny houses, as well as some with restrictions in place.

• Los Angeles: Tiny houses are allowed accessory dwelling units (ADUs), provided they meet certain size and setback requirements.
• Fresno County: Tiny houses are allowed as ADUs, but strict size limits are in place.
• Santa Cruz: Tiny houses on wheels (THOWs) are permitted in all zoning districts, as long as they comply with the California Building Code.
• California City: Tiny houses are allowed as ADUs, but there are strict size limits in place.
• San Luis Obispo County: Tiny houses are allowed as ADUs, provided they meet certain size and setback requirements.
• Santa Barbara County: Tiny houses on wheels (THOWs) are permitted in all zoning districts, as long as they comply with the California Building Code.
• San Diego: Tiny houses are allowed as ADUs, and houses on wheels (THOWs) are permitted in all zoning districts, as long as they comply with the California Building Building Code.

Can you permanently live in a tiny house in California?

Yes, you can permanently live in a tiny house in California. Quite a few people are doing this, and there are even communities of tiny houses popping up around the state. However, there are a few things to remember if you're thinking about making this permanent switch.

First, you'll need to ensure your tiny house is up to code. This means ensuring that your tiny house meets all California building codes. Once you've done that, you'll need to find a place to park your tiny home. Many do this on their property, but RV parks and camping sites welcome tiny houses.

Finally, you'll need to be prepared for the cost of living in a tiny house. While they are cheaper than traditional homes, they still come with their own expenses. You'll need to factor in things like utilities, insurance, and other costs associated with owning a home. However, many people find that the savings on their mortgage or rent more than makeup for these additional costs.

So, if you're considering switching to a tiny house, know that it is possible to do so permanently in California. Just be sure to research and prepare for the challenges of living in such a small space.

For a detailed guide, grab the full 39-page digital manual providing insights into California Tiny Home Rules and Regulations here.

How tiny can a house be in California?

Zoning regulations will vary depending on the city or county where you plan to build your tiny house. You need to go through your local ordinances for an exact figure, but generally, a minimum interior square footage of 100 square feet is enough.

In some areas, there may be restrictions on the minimum dwelling unit size. Also, building codes typically have minimum square footage requirements for dwellings, so your tiny house would need to meet those standards.

Ultimately, whether or not you can build a tiny house in California will come down to meeting all the relevant regulations and code requirements. However, if you're willing to do the research, it is possible to build a tiny house in this state.

Rules and regulations for tiny houses in California

If you want to build a tiny house in California, you'll need to ensure it meets the standards set by the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC). 

• Tiny homes must have a ceiling height of at least 7 feet 6 inches
• The must be at least one room with a gross floor area of 120 square feet or more. 
• They must also have a net floor area of at least 70 square feet for all other living spaces. 

In addition, basic requirements for light, ventilation, plumbing, emergency exits, and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors must be met. If you're really set on owning the tiniest house possible, you may go even smaller by building what's known as an "accessory dwelling unit" (ADU). 

ADUs are typically much smaller than standard homes; you can build them on a property with a primary dwelling. However, there are strict rules and regulations governing the construction of ADUs, so be sure to do your research before you start building.

Rules for permanent structures

There are a few key rules for permanent structures to keep in mind. First, all permanent structures must be built to code and must meet all local building ordinances. 

Secondly, all permanent structures must be connected to water, sewer, and electricity utilities. Finally, all permanent structures must be properly permitted by the local authorities.

Rules for temporary tiny houses

If you're planning on living in a tiny house on wheels (THOW), you'll need to follow the rules for RV camping. This means you can only stay in one spot for up to two weeks before moving to another location.

If you want to park your THOW in your backyard, you'll need to get a permit from your local city or county. The permit process differs for every municipality, so check with your local government for specific requirements.

In general, you'll need to meet certain setback requirements from property lines and make sure your THOW meets all California building codes. Once you have your permit, you can park your THOW on your property for up to 180 days.

If you're looking for a more permanent solution, you can apply for a permit to build a tiny house on a foundation. This process is similar to building a regular home, so you'll need to work with an architect or designer to create plans that meet all Local zoning requirements. Access the entire 39-page digital booklet detailing California Tiny Home Rules and Regulations here.

Rules for transitional structures

Tiny houses on wheels must be registered and titled as RVs with the California DMV. They must also comply with all California Vehicle Code requirements, including safety standards, lighting, and licensing requirements.

In order to be parked on public property, tiny houses on wheels must have a permit from the local jurisdiction.

Transitional structures (such as sheds or other types of small buildings that are not connected to utilities) cannot be used as permanent residences. They can only be used for a maximum of 180 days in any given year.

All transitional structures must meet all applicable building codes, including fire safety standards.

Sheds or other types of small buildings that are not connected to utilities can only be used as accessory structures and cannot be the primary residence on a property.

If you are planning to live in a transitional structure on your property, you must notify your local building department and obtain all necessary permits.

Once you have obtained all the necessary permits, you must also have your dwelling inspected by the local building department to ensure that it meets all safety standards.

If you are living in a transitional structure without the proper permits or inspections, you may be subject to fines and other penalties.

Where can I build a tiny house in California?

There are many places where you can build a tiny house in California. However, it is important to check with your local city and county regulations to see if any restrictions are in place. Some of the places where you might be able to build a tiny house include:

• In your backyard
• On vacant land
• In an RV park or campground
• In a tiny house community

Before you start building your tiny house, be sure to do your research and ensure that you are following all the local regulations. This will help you avoid any problems down the road.

Do I have to pay property taxes for my tiny house?

Tiny homeowners in California can expect to pay some property tax, even if they don't own the land on which their home is parked. However, the amount of tax will vary depending on the situation and location. It's best to speak with a tax professional in your area to better understand what you'll owe.

Whether or not you have to pay property taxes for your tiny house in California depends on where you place your home. If you own the land where your tiny house is parked, you will have to pay property taxes on that land. However, if you're renting a spot for your tiny house or parking it on someone else's land, you likely won't have to pay property taxes directly on your home. 

There are other types of taxes that you may have to pay even if you don't own the land on which your tiny house is parked. For example, depending on where you live, you may have to pay personal property taxes on your tiny home as an RV or trailer.

Where can I park a tiny home in California? 

There are a few different options for parking a tiny home in California. You can opt for private parking, parking spots on farms or tiny house communities, or RV parks.

Private parking

Private parking may be an option if you have a friend or family member with extra space on their property. This could be a driveway, backyard, or even a vacant lot. Just be sure to get permission from the property owner before parking your tiny home on their land.

Parking spots on farms or in tiny house communities

Parking spots on farms or in tiny house communities are another option. These spaces typically have hookups for water and electricity, which can be convenient. And they often come with an affordable monthly fee.

RV parks are also an option for parking a tiny home in California. Many RV parks have spaces that can accommodate a tiny home, and they typically have hookups for water and electricity. However, RV parks can be more expensive than other options, so be sure to compare prices before deciding.

Are there tiny home communities in California?

Yes, there are several tiny home communities in California. These include the Tiny House community in Joshua Tree, the Modesto Tiny House Community, and the Fresno Tiny House Community. Several other small-scale intentional communities throughout the state also welcome residents living in smaller abodes.  

With its temperate climate and varied landscapes, California is an ideal state for those looking to downsize and simplify their lives. These communities are a great place to start if you're interested in exploring the tiny house lifestyle.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you're considering building or living in a tiny home in California. For starters, your tiny home must meet the standard building code requirements. This means that it must meet all the same safety and construction standards as any other home.

In addition, your tiny home must be registered with the state, and you must have valid vehicle registration and license plate. You'll also need to pay property taxes on your tiny home, just like any other home. Many localities are supportive of tiny homes, but there are some that have enacted moratoriums or bans on them.  

So be sure to check with your local authorities before you build or move into a tiny home in California. If you're looking to buy a brand new tiny house, explore some high-quality options on our website.

Purchase your dream tiny house!

Need more info? Get

The complete guide to california's tiny home rules and regulations, subscribe to get the latest news.

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

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

More Related Posts

Color Schemes for Kitchens With Dark Cabinets

The Best Kitchen Colors With White Cabinets 2024

Tiny House Builders: Understanding the Need for Scaffolding

Frequently asked questions.

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

More Related Articles

15 Tiny Home Kitchen Hacks

Join the tiny house community.