Georgia Tiny Home Laws: What You Need to Know

Georgia’s mild climate, affordable land, and Southern hospitality make it a tempting spot for tiny home enthusiasts. But whether you want to build a modern tiny house, park a tiny home on wheels (THOW), or add an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in your backyard, it’s essential to understand the patchwork of laws and local rules that shape where and how you can live tiny in the Peach State.

Are Tiny Homes Legal in Georgia?

There is no statewide law in Georgia specifically covering tiny homes. Instead, each county, city, or town sets its own rules through local zoning codes, building standards, and minimum size requirements. In 2025, a handful of cities and rural counties have begun to embrace tiny homes, but you’ll need to check local regulations carefully before moving forward.

Quick Picks: Best Places for Tiny Homes in Georgia

• Clarkston: The first Georgia city to officially legalize tiny homes on foundations (as small as 250 sq. ft.) and ADUs. (City info)
• Atlanta: Allows ADUs in many neighborhoods and is developing new small housing policies. Most tiny homes must be on a foundation and meet building codes. (City website)
• Chattahoochee Hills (Fulton County): Welcomes tiny home communities and flexible zoning for alternative living. (Learn more)
• Rural counties (North Georgia, Coastal, and South Georgia): Often have more relaxed building codes, especially for owner-built homes, cabins, or THOWs on large land parcels.
• Decatur, Savannah, Macon, Athens: Some cities now allow ADUs, but minimum sizes and design rules can vary widely.

Always contact your county or city zoning/planning office before you buy land or build—rules vary from one community to the next.

Buyer’s Guide: What to Know Before Going Tiny in Georgia

• Type of Tiny Home: Is it a home on a permanent foundation or a tiny home on wheels (THOW)? Laws treat each differently.
• Building Codes: Most areas use the International Residential Code (IRC). Some progressive cities/counties have adopted Appendix Q, designed for tiny homes under 400 sq. ft.
• Zoning Laws: Your tiny home or ADU must be built or parked in a residential, mixed-use, or agricultural zone that allows small dwellings. Rural zones are typically more flexible.
• Minimum Square Footage: Most cities require at least 500–1,000 sq. ft. for new homes. Clarkston now allows homes as small as 250 sq. ft. for ADUs and primary dwellings on foundation.
• Utilities: Permanent homes require approved water, septic/sewer, and electricity. Off-grid living is possible in some rural counties but rare in cities.
• Permits & Inspections: All legal homes need a building permit and must pass inspections. Rural, owner-built homes may have simpler requirements.
• HOA & Neighborhood Rules: Homeowners associations can ban tiny homes, RVs, or nontraditional structures even if local zoning allows them.

Detailed Reviews: Georgia Tiny Home Laws by Category

Tiny Homes on Foundations

The safest path for legal tiny home living in Georgia is to build on a permanent foundation that meets the local building code and size requirements. Clarkston, Atlanta, and some rural counties allow tiny homes as primary or secondary dwellings, especially on larger lots or as part of ADU programs.

• Most cities: 500–1,000 sq. ft. minimum; Clarkston: 250 sq. ft.
• Must meet IRC or local code, pass inspections, and have utility hookups
• Allowed in residential, mixed-use, and rural/agricultural zones

Final Verdict: The most secure route for legal, year-round tiny living in Georgia.

Tiny Homes on Wheels (THOWs)

Georgia law treats THOWs as RVs or mobile homes. Most cities prohibit full-time living in THOWs on residential lots, but rural counties may allow them on private land—especially for seasonal, vacation, or farm use.

• Must be registered as an RV or mobile home
• Can only be lived in full-time in RV/mobile home parks or, in some rural counties, on private land
• Often restricted to temporary or seasonal use in most cities

Final Verdict: THOWs are best for rural or agricultural land, but city living is tricky unless parked in a permitted tiny home village.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

Georgia’s cities are gradually adopting ADU-friendly laws to allow more backyard cottages and “granny flats” in residential zones.

• Must be built on the same lot as a main home
• Size limits: usually 250–800 sq. ft.
• Permit, inspections, and full utilities required

Final Verdict: ADUs are the easiest and most flexible way to add a legal tiny home in Georgia’s cities and suburbs.

Comparison Table: Georgia Tiny Home Options

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the minimum legal size for a tiny home in Georgia?

Most places require 500–1,000 sq. ft. for a primary home. Clarkston is a rare exception, allowing as little as 250 sq. ft. for new houses or ADUs. Always check with your local building department.

Can I live full-time in a tiny home on wheels in Georgia?

In most cities, only in an RV or mobile home park. In rural counties, you may be able to live in a THOW on private land, but always check local codes first.

Are off-grid tiny homes legal in Georgia?

Usually only in rural counties or unincorporated areas—must meet septic, water, and safety standards. Cities typically require full utility hookups.

Can I put a tiny home in my backyard?

If your city or county allows ADUs, yes—subject to size, setback, and permitting rules.

Are shipping container homes legal in Georgia?

In some rural counties and progressive cities, yes—if built to code and with a permit. Always confirm with local officials before starting.

Conclusion

Georgia offers a growing number of legal options for tiny home living, especially in cities like Clarkston and Atlanta or in rural counties with relaxed codes. Always start with your local zoning office, double-check HOA and neighborhood rules, and get every permit you need before building or moving in. With research and planning, you can enjoy simple, affordable living in the heart of the South!