Adding a Tiny Home in Boise, Idaho

With scenic views of the foothills and access to the Boise River, Boise, Idaho, is an appealing choice for homeowners interested in adding a tiny home, prefabricated ADU, or guest cottage to their property. Installing a tiny home on your land can feel like a significant undertaking.

Each area, including Boise, has its own unique requirements regarding permits, construction, setup, and delivery of a modular accessory dwelling unit. The challenges you may encounter can range from simple to quite complex, necessitating careful planning and attention to detail.

Fortunately, we’re here to help. Check out our guide below on how to make adding a tiny home or modular ADU to your property easy.

Table of Contents

Assessing Whether a Tiny Home is Suitable for Your Needs

Determining if a tiny home is the right fit involves evaluating your specific needs, property conditions, and long-term objectives. For homeowners with existing properties, adding a modular tiny home can provide essential extra space for family members or guests, making it an ideal solution for those seeking to accommodate loved ones or simplify their living arrangements. If you’re considering purchasing new land, a tiny home offers an affordable and sustainable option, allowing you to maximize your investment while minimizing maintenance. Additionally, tiny homes can serve as perfect accommodations for aging parents or adult children, promoting independence while keeping family close.

For those interested in generating income, tiny homes can be lucrative investment properties. Many homeowners opt to use tiny homes as rental units, whether for long-term leases or short-term vacation rentals, enhancing their property’s earning potential. To help evaluate whether a tiny home aligns with your lifestyle and financial aspirations, consider the following factors:

  • Property Ownership: Do you already own land that can accommodate a tiny home, or are you looking to buy new property?
  • Zoning Regulations: Are local zoning laws supportive of tiny homes or accessory dwelling units (ADUs)?
  • Family Dynamics: Are you planning to use the tiny home for a relative, guest, or as a rental space?
  • Income Opportunities: Are you interested in generating rental income from the tiny home?
  • Lifestyle Preferences: Do you seek a simpler, more manageable living space with lower expenses?

What is the Permitting Process Like for Residents of Boise?

The permitting process typically begins by identifying the appropriate authority to which you must report. Depending on the location, you may need to submit permits either to the city or its overarching jurisdiction, which is usually the county where the property is situated. Most authorities provide information regarding zoning and building regulations on their websites.

After determining where to file your permits, the next step is to clarify which types of structures are permissible. This can vary based on whether the structure will serve as the primary residence or an additional unit. Secondary homes are often classified as accessory dwelling units (ADUs), supplementary units, guest cottages, or under specific hardship provisions. ADUs can also be either standalone (detached) or connected (attached) to the main dwelling.

Consulting with a tiny home permitting expert or building planner early in the process can help save both time and money, significantly simplifying the steps needed to obtain the necessary permits.

Getting the paperwork started

Here’s a step-by-step list for obtaining building permits in Boise, Idaho, for adding a tiny home or modular ADU:

Research Local Zoning Regulations
Begin by reviewing the zoning rules for your property through the City of Boise or Ada County websites, or by contacting local planning offices. Ensure that your property is zoned to allow for a tiny home or modular ADU.

Review Building Codes
Understand the building codes specific to Boise and Ada County. These codes will regulate the construction, safety, and structural integrity of your tiny home or ADU.

Consult with City and County Officials
Reach out to the City of Boise or Ada County’s planning and building departments. Schedule a consultation to discuss your project and gather details on the specific permit requirements.

Prepare Utility Plans
Plan for utility connections (water, sewer, electricity) that meet city and county requirements. Ensure you have a strategy for site preparation, including grading and foundation work.

Submit Permit Applications
File the necessary building permit applications with the City of Boise or Ada County. This will typically include site plans, utility connection plans, and project details.

Complete Safety Inspections
As your project progresses, schedule safety inspections with local authorities. These inspections ensure that your construction meets all structural, electrical, and plumbing safety standards.

Obtain Final Approval
Once inspections are complete, finalize the permit process by obtaining a certificate of occupancy or equivalent approval from the city or county, allowing you to legally use your tiny home or ADU.

Permits vary depending on the structure and site

    Attached accessory dwelling unit (ADU), Detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU), Hardship, Guest house, Accessory structure, Water adequacy verification (WAVE), Mechanical, Deck / covered porch, Septic, Electrical, Plumbing, Propane tank, Critical areas, Demolition, Solar panel system, Agricultural, Water tank and pump, Revision, Land use/planning clearance, Legal lot determination, Engineered stormwater plan, Road approach, Forest practice review, Wetland/habitat determination, Fire sprinkler system, Pre-application, Development engineering

Choosing the Best Builder for Your Tiny Home

Choosing the perfect home builder necessitates comprehensive research and a clear comprehension of your project’s requirements. Begin by assessing the builder’s experience, especially in constructing homes comparable in size, style, and complexity to the one you envision.

An experienced builder will maintain a portfolio of completed projects that showcase their expertise and craftsmanship. Reviewing feedback, testimonials, and conversing with previous clients can provide valuable insights into their reliability, quality of work, and ability to meet deadlines. Ensure the builder is well-versed in local building codes and regulations, as this is essential for facilitating a smooth permitting process and project execution.

In addition to technical skills, consider how effectively the builder communicates and how transparent they are regarding costs and timelines. A reputable builder will provide a detailed estimate and be candid about possible overruns or delays. Inquire about the types of materials they utilize and whether they offer any warranties or post-construction services. These aspects are crucial for ensuring that your home is constructed with high-quality, durable materials and that you receive support after the project is finished.

Ultimately, the ideal home builder should blend experience, openness, and strong communication to help realize your vision within your budget and schedule.

Modular versus on-site home builders

A modular home builder creates residences in a factory environment where the various sections, or modules, of the house are prefabricated in a controlled setting. These modules are then transported to the construction site and assembled on a foundation.

Modular construction enables quicker completion times, as progress is not hindered by weather or site conditions, and materials are stored indoors, safeguarding them from damage due to the elements. The factory environment also facilitates stricter quality control measures and uniform building standards. Modular homes can be designed to comply with or surpass local building codes, making them a dependable and cost-effective choice for those seeking a faster and more efficient build. In contrast, an on-site home builder constructs residences directly at the location where they will be situated. This traditional method, often referred to as stick-built construction, offers more flexibility during the build, with adjustments and modifications easily made as the project advances. However, on-site constructions are more vulnerable to weather-related delays and require careful coordination among trades such as framers, plumbers, and electricians, which can prolong the project timeline.

While on-site construction may take longer and involve additional complexities, it allows for greater customization and local expertise, making it ideal for projects that require a unique design or adaptation to specific environmental factors at the home site. Both approaches have their benefits, but modular builders emphasize speed and efficiency, while on-site builders provide flexibility and hands-on management.

Turn-Key ADUs and Guest Homes Offer Big Savings

Modular home builders offer significant savings when it comes to off-site built ADUs. Here’s an example of how combining the permitting, production and installation of a tiny home adds up:

Item Cost
Model B (Base price) $67,500
Upgrades (Optional additions & Appliances) $12,000
Site work, Foundation, Delivery & Setup $34,000
Sub Total w/ Tax (WA) $125,172
Permits (Wolf Service Fee & Jurisdiction Fee) $7,500
Total $

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Excited to embark on the journey to create the tiny home you've always envisioned?

Ready to transform your living environment with a tiny home? Our skilled team is here to assist you through every phase of the process, from navigating the permitting requirements to personalizing your ideal home. With our dedication to quality and sustainability, you can reap the benefits of a modern, efficient living space tailored to meet your needs. Whether you’re looking to add a cozy getaway in your backyard, create a rental income opportunity, or adopt a simpler lifestyle, we have the perfect solution for you.

Don’t hesitate any longer to turn your tiny home aspirations into reality! Reach out to us today to discover more about our turn-key tiny homes and how we can support you throughout the journey. Let’s embark on this thrilling adventure together and create a space that embodies your unique lifestyle and vision. Your dream tiny home is waiting!

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