Understanding Tiny House Living in Pennsylvania: Legal Considerations
Tiny house living in Pennsylvania is possible, but it requires adherence to local zoning laws and building codes. Here's a breakdown of the legal considerations for tiny house living in the state:
Zoning Laws: Local Compliance Required
Tiny houses in Pennsylvania must comply with local zoning laws, the Building Code 2018 of Pennsylvania, and the Residential Code 2018 of Pennsylvania. These regulations ensure that tiny homes meet safety, health, and welfare standards. Additionally, tiny houses on wheels are categorized as recreational vehicles (RVs) and must conform to the 2018 Board of Vehicle Act 1341.
Minimum Square Footage: Specific Requirements
Pennsylvania's building code specifies that a tiny house must have a minimum floor area of 70 square feet with horizontal dimensions of at least 7 feet. Additionally, for habitable rooms other than the main room, there's a requirement for at least 70 square feet of floor area.
Room Requirements: Habitability Standards
Every dwelling unit in Pennsylvania must include at least one habitable room with a minimum floor area of 120 square feet. Other habitable rooms, aside from the main room, should have a floor area of not less than 70 square feet. These requirements are in place to ensure habitability and comfort.
Bathroom and Kitchen Regulations: No Specifics
While there are no specific regulations provided for bathrooms and kitchens in tiny homes, most tiny houses are designed to be fully functional. They can be connected to traditional utilities such as electricity, water, and sewage systems.
Living Room Regulations: No Specifics
Pennsylvania's regulations do not explicitly address living rooms in tiny homes. However, habitable rooms in general must have a minimum of 70 square feet of floor area and be at least 7 feet in any horizontal dimension.
Loft Considerations: Safety and Accessibility
While there are no specific regulations for lofts in tiny homes, it's essential to consider safety and accessibility when planning a loft space. Ensuring safe and convenient access to the loft area is crucial.
Foundation vs. Wheels: Classification Matters
Tiny houses on foundations must adhere to local zoning laws, the Building Code 2018 of Pennsylvania, and the Residential Code 2018 of Pennsylvania. On the other hand, tiny houses on wheels are classified as RVs and must conform to the 2018 Board of Vehicle Act 1341.
Plumbing and Electricity: Conventional Utility Connections
Most tiny homes in Pennsylvania are designed to be fully functional and can be connected to conventional utilities, including electricity, water, and sewage systems.
Keep in mind that regulations may vary based on specific locations and their respective zoning laws. It's essential to reach out to the local zoning or planning department to ensure compliance with current regulations in your chosen area. For more detailed information, you may want to refer to the Building Code 2018 of Pennsylvania and the Residential Code 2018 of Pennsylvania.