Oregon is becoming one of the most forward-thinking states when it comes to legalizing tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) in the Pacific Northwest . If you’re exploring whether you can legally live in a THOW on your property, this post breaks down what’s allowed, what’s not, and how recent state legislation is expanding possibilities beyond city limits.
Take this opportunity to explore the evolving legal landscape and discover new opportunities for tiny homes in Portland and Oregon.
Key takeaways:
- Tiny houses on wheels are legal to live in full-time in Portland, and select rural counties in Oregon.
- Portland allows one occupied RV or THOW per residential lot, with no certification (like RVIA or ANSI) required.
- Oregon’s Senate Bill 1013 gives rural counties the option to legalize full-time living in RVs or THOWs on residential land—currently adopted in Lane, Deschutes, and Clackamas Counties.
- Short-term rentals are prohibited under both Portland’s ordinance and the statewide bill.
- Utility hookups are required, though Portland allows units with composting toilets if the main house provides bathroom access.
- DIY or custom tiny homes on wheels are permitted in Portland, provided they remain movable.
- Clever Tiny Homes conducted a webinar on this topic with Tiny Home and ADU expert Kol Peterson. Watch the recap at the bottom of this article.
Tiny Homes Designs and Features
One of the most exciting aspects of tiny homes is the incredible variety of designs and features available to owners. In Portland and throughout Oregon, tiny home builders are creating homes that range from sleek, modern retreats to warm, rustic cabins, each one designed to meet the unique needs and style preferences of its residents. Popular features in today’s tiny homes include lofted sleeping areas, full-sized kitchens, and spa-like bathrooms, all crafted with an eye for maximizing space and comfort.
Many custom tiny homes are built with sustainable materials and energy-efficient appliances, offering eco-friendly options for those who want to minimize their environmental impact. Innovative storage solutions, multi-purpose furniture, and flexible layouts ensure that every inch of your tiny home is put to good use. Whether you’re building a cozy getaway for two or a functional family home, there are endless options to create a space that truly fits your lifestyle.
Are Tiny Homes Legal in Oregon?
Yes, but only in specific areas and the legality depends on local regulations. Portland is currently the most permissive jurisdiction, with a 2021 ordinance that allows people to reside full-time in RVs and THOWs on residential lots. Meanwhile, other parts of the state are catching up, thanks to Senate Bill 1013, which authorizes rural counties to adopt similar rules.
Unlike many states where tiny houses remain in a gray zone, Oregon is establishing a formal path for this type of housing, especially for long-term residential use. This process involves meeting specific legal requirements and following the necessary steps to ensure compliance with state and local regulations.
Can I Build a Tiny Home in Oregon?
You can build a tiny home in Oregon, but whether you can live in it on your own land depends on local zoning. In Portland, residents are now allowed to park and occupy a THOW or other RV-type unit on their property as a long-term residence. This policy includes custom tiny homes on wheels, fifth wheels, campers, and non-motorized trailers. Professional builders play a crucial role in ensuring these homes are constructed with expertise and meet high standards of quality.
One of the most significant features of Portland’s ordinance is that it does not require the unit to be built to a specific certification standard such as RVIA or ANSI 119.5. As long as the home remains on wheels and meets setback and utility requirements, it can be a DIY or home-built structure—giving people more freedom to design a space that fits their lifestyle. The craftsmanship involved in building these homes ensures attention to detail and quality materials. Builders and clients often work closely together throughout the process to create a home that is tailored to fit the client's unique needs.
Do I Need a Permit to Build a Tiny House on My Property?
In Portland, if your tiny house remains on wheels and is classified as a vehicle, it does not require a building permit. However, there are important site requirements: the unit must be installed with proper utility hookups—including electrical (minimum 20 amps, typically 30–50 amps), freshwater connection via hose, and legal sewer tie-in. Alternatively, if the unit lacks a bathroom, the occupants must have access to a bathroom in the primary home. Composting toilets are allowed under these conditions. Most utility setups fall within the range of $5,000 to $15,000. In addition to these requirements, a quality finish—such as the detailed aspects of interior craftsmanship—may be necessary to meet inspection or compliance standards.
Once a THOW is removed from its wheels or placed on a foundation, it is subject to standard building codes and must comply with the Oregon Residential Specialty Code. In that case, permitting and inspection would be required.
What About Tiny Living Outside of Portland?
Oregon’s Senate Bill 1013, passed in 2023, enables counties outside city limits and urban growth boundaries to permit residential use of RVs and THOWs. However, the bill only takes effect if a county chooses to adopt it.
Under SB 1013, the THOW or RV must be tenant-owned, and the property must be owner-occupied. Unlike Portland’s rules, the unit must include a working toilet and sink. The property owner is responsible for providing access to water, sewer, and electricity. Tiny homes are typically delivered directly to rural properties and installed on-site, ensuring a smooth transition from transport to setup.
Counties are allowed to set additional standards, such as minimum lot sizes—typically around two acres—and may impose specific placement or permitting requirements. As of this writing, Clackamas County, Deschutes County, and Lane County have officially adopted ordinances based on SB 1013.
The Tiny House Movement and Community
Across Oregon, people who choose to live in tiny houses are finding themselves part of a vibrant, supportive network of like-minded individuals. From local meetups and workshops to larger festivals and online forums, the tiny house community offers plenty of opportunities to share experiences, learn new skills, and celebrate the joys of tiny living. This movement encourages people to live intentionally, reduce their environmental footprint, and focus on what truly matters. For many, joining the tiny house movement means embracing a lifestyle that values experiences over possessions and fosters a strong sense of belonging and purpose.
Tiny Homes Portland: Why This Matters
Oregon is one of the only states creating clear, long-term legal paths for tiny house life, without requiring certification, permanent foundations, or conventional building permits in some jurisdictions. This flexibility opens up affordable, high-quality housing options for homeowners, multigenerational families, and clients seeking alternative living arrangements. The tiny home movement in Oregon is built on a foundation of commitment to quality and integrity, ensuring that every project is handled with dedication and ethical practices.
For many, the ability to live legally in a THOW represents more than housing, it’s the freedom to shape a life that aligns with their values, priorities, and sense of fun. Living in a tiny home brings a unique joy, offering emotional fulfillment and happiness through simplicity and thoughtful design. It’s also a chance to claim a little space in a market that often feels out of reach.
By offering both urban and rural pathways for legal THOW placement, Oregon stands out nationally for its innovative approach to housing. Tiny homes offer residents efficient use of space, comfort, and the amenities needed for a fulfilling lifestyle. The price of tiny homes makes them more accessible to a wider range of people, helping to address housing affordability. These homes help clients realize their dreams and vision by providing customizable solutions that reflect personal aspirations. The design and construction process brings each client’s vision into form, turning ideas into tangible, livable spaces. It’s a step closer to making the dream of accessible, flexible, and high-quality living a reality.
Challenges and Limitations
While the benefits of tiny living are many, it’s important to be aware of the challenges and limitations that come with this lifestyle. Finding the right place to park or build your tiny home can be a hurdle, as zoning laws and land use regulations vary widely and may restrict your options. The compact size of tiny homes also means that owners need to be thoughtful about storage, organization, and how to make the most of every square foot. Issues like moisture control and ventilation require careful attention to detail in the design and maintenance of your home. For larger families or those who love to entertain, the limited space can sometimes feel restrictive.
However, with thorough research, smart design choices, and a willingness to adapt, many tiny home owners find creative solutions that allow them to fully enjoy the benefits of tiny living. By understanding these potential challenges ahead of time, you can make informed decisions and set yourself up for a successful and rewarding tiny home experience.
Watch our Webinar Recap: What’s Legal and What’s Next for THOWs in Oregon
In our recent expert webinar, Kol Peterson walked through these legal updates in detail, providing guidance on how to navigate Portland’s ordinance, interpret Senate Bill 1013, and plan your next steps.
Whether you’re exploring a DIY build, a professional quality tiny home purchase, or a place to legally park and live, this is essential information. Contact our team to receive personalized guidance or a free estimate tailored to your needs.
Have questions about your specific property or county?
Our team can walk you through what’s allowed and help you find the right model and placement strategy.
We're here to support you every step of the way on your tiny home journey.