Adding a Tiny Home in Missoula, Montana

With the stunning natural surroundings of the Bitterroot Mountains and the Clark Fork River, Missoula, Montana, is an appealing choice for homeowners looking to add a tiny home, prefabricated ADU, or guest house to their property.

Placing a tiny home on your land can feel like an overwhelming process. Each location has its own specific rules regarding permits, construction, setup, and delivery of a modular accessory dwelling unit. The obstacles you may encounter can vary from minor to quite complex. However, with the right guidance, these challenges can be efficiently managed, making the process much smoother.

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

Deciding if a tiny home is the right choice for you

Determining if a tiny home is the right fit depends on your individual goals and living situation. For homeowners with existing properties, adding a modular tiny home can be a great way to maximize space, whether you’re planning a guest house, an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), or looking to generate rental income. Additionally, tiny homes offer a cost-effective and flexible solution for those looking to purchase new property. For families considering multigenerational living, a tiny home can provide a private, independent space for a relative while keeping them close by.

To assess whether a tiny home is the right option, consider factors such as your property’s available space, local zoning regulations, and your long-term needs. Tiny homes can be ideal for simplifying your lifestyle, but it’s important to ensure that the design and setup meet your specific requirements. Here are a few key questions to ask yourself:

– Do I have enough room on my current property, or am I buying new land to accommodate a tiny home?
– What are the local zoning laws and building codes regarding tiny homes or ADUs in my area?
– Am I looking for a low-maintenance, cost-effective living solution?
– Will the tiny home be used for personal use, family, or as an income-generating rental?
– How important are sustainability and energy efficiency in my housing decision?

Answering these questions can help you determine if a tiny home aligns with your lifestyle and goals.

What is the permitting process like for those in Missoula?

The permitting process typically begins by identifying the appropriate governing authority for your property. Depending on the location, you will either need to submit your permits to the city or its overseeing body, which is usually the county in which the property is located. Most local authorities provide detailed information on zoning laws and building codes through their official websites.

Once you’ve determined which agency handles the permits, the next step is to confirm what types of structures are permitted. This varies based on whether the structure will serve as the primary residence or a secondary dwelling. Additional homes are often approved as accessory dwelling units (ADUs), secondary homes, guest houses, or hardship accommodations. ADUs can either be separate (detached) or connected (attached) to the main structure.

Consulting a tiny home permitting expert or building planner early on can save both time and money, significantly simplifying the permit acquisition process and ensuring everything moves smoothly.

Getting the paperwork started

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

  1. Research Local Zoning Regulations
    Begin by reviewing the zoning rules for your property through the City of Missoula or Missoula County websites, or by contacting local planning offices. Ensure that the location allows for a tiny home or modular ADU.
  2. Review Building Codes
    Understand the building codes specific to Missoula and Missoula County. These codes will govern the construction, safety, and structural integrity of your tiny home or ADU.
  3. Consult with City and County Officials
    Reach out to the City of Missoula and Missoula County’s planning and building departments. Schedule a consultation to discuss your project and gather details on the specific permit requirements.
  4. 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 placement.
  5. Submit Permit Applications
    File the necessary building permit applications with the City of Missoula and Missoula County. This may include site plans, utility connection plans, and project details.
  6. Complete Safety Inspections
    As construction progresses, schedule safety inspections with local authorities. These inspections ensure your project meets all structural, electrical, and plumbing safety standards.
  7. Obtain Final Approval
    After successful inspections, finalize the permit process by obtaining a certificate of occupancy or equivalent approval from the city or county, allowing you to legally use the 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 perfect tiny home builder

Choosing the right home builder requires careful research and a solid understanding of your project’s requirements. Begin by assessing the builder’s expertise, particularly in constructing homes of similar size, style, and complexity to the one you have in mind.

An experienced builder will have a portfolio showcasing completed projects that highlight their skill and craftsmanship. Reading reviews, going through testimonials, and reaching out to previous clients can provide valuable insights into their dependability, quality of work, and ability to meet deadlines. It’s essential to verify that the builder has a deep understanding of local building codes and regulations, which is crucial for ensuring a smooth permit approval process and seamless project execution.

In addition to technical proficiency, consider how effectively the builder communicates and their transparency regarding costs and timelines. A reliable builder will provide a comprehensive estimate and be upfront about potential overruns or delays. Inquire about the materials they use and whether they offer warranties or post-project support. These elements are important to ensure your home is built with durable, high-quality materials and that you have assistance after the construction is complete.

Ultimately, the right home builder should combine experience, honesty, and clear communication to bring your vision to life within your budget and timeframe.

Modular versus on-site home builders

A modular home builder constructs houses in a factory setting, where the different sections, or modules, of the home are pre-fabricated in a controlled environment. These modules are then transported to the site and assembled on a pre-prepared foundation.

Modular construction offers faster completion times because the work isn’t impacted by weather or site conditions, and materials are stored indoors, protecting them from potential damage due to exposure. The factory setting also allows for more rigorous quality control and consistent building standards. Modular homes can be customized to meet or exceed local building regulations, making them a dependable and cost-efficient choice for those seeking a quicker and more streamlined construction process.

In contrast, an on-site home builder constructs homes directly at the location where they will stand. This traditional method, often called stick-built construction, provides more flexibility during the build, allowing for modifications and adjustments as the project evolves. However, on-site construction is more prone to weather-related delays and requires careful coordination among trades like carpenters, plumbers, and electricians, which can extend the overall timeline.

Although on-site construction may take longer and involve more complexities, it offers greater customization and benefits from local expertise, making it ideal for projects that require unique designs or adaptations to specific environmental conditions. Both approaches have their merits—modular builders focus on speed and efficiency, while on-site builders offer adaptability and hands-on oversight.

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 begin building the tiny home you’ve always imagined?

Ready to reimagine your living space with a tiny home? Our experienced team is here to support you throughout every phase, from navigating permit regulations to designing your ideal home. With our focus on quality and sustainability, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a modern, energy-efficient space tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re aiming to create a cozy backyard retreat, generate rental income, or embrace a more minimalist lifestyle, we have the perfect solution for you.

Don’t wait to turn your tiny home vision into reality! Reach out to us today to learn more about our turn-key tiny homes and how we can guide you every step of the way. Let’s start this exciting journey together and create a home that reflects your personal style and vision. Your dream tiny home is just a call away!

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