Adding a Tiny Home in Hillsboro, Oregon

With scenic landscapes, including the Tualatin River and the surrounding hills, Hillsboro, Oregon, is an appealing choice for homeowners looking to add 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 Hillsboro, has its own specific requirements regarding permits, construction, setup, and delivery of a modular accessory dwelling unit. The challenges you may encounter can vary from simple to quite complex, necessitating careful planning and consideration.

 

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.

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Please re-write the following to be phrased differently: Determining if a tiny home is right for you

Determining if a tiny home is the right fit involves assessing individual needs, property conditions, and future goals. For homeowners with existing properties, adding a modular tiny home can provide valuable additional space for family members, guests, or even a home office. If you’re considering purchasing new land, a tiny home offers an affordable and sustainable option that maximizes your investment while minimizing upkeep. Additionally, tiny homes can be ideal for accommodating aging parents or adult children, promoting independence while keeping family close.

For those interested in generating income, tiny homes can serve as lucrative investment properties. Many homeowners choose to utilize tiny homes as rental units, whether for long-term leases or short-term vacation rentals, increasing 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 have land suitable for a tiny home, or are you looking to acquire new property?
  • Zoning Regulations: Are local zoning laws supportive of tiny homes or accessory dwelling units (ADUs)?
  • Family Considerations: 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 desire a simpler, more manageable living space with reduced expenses?

What is the Permitting Process Like for Residents of Hillsboro?

The permitting process typically begins by identifying the appropriate authority to which you must submit your application. Depending on the location, you may need to file permits with the city or its overseeing 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 submit 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 residences, 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 required to obtain the necessary permits.

Getting the paperwork started

Here’s a step-by-step list for obtaining building permits in Hillsboro, Oregon, 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 Hillsboro and Washington 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 Hillsboro and Washington 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 Hillsboro and Washington 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 Hillsboro and Washington 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 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 possess a portfolio of finished projects that showcase their expertise and craftsmanship. Reviewing feedback, testimonials, and conversing with previous clients can provide valuable insights into their dependability, 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 open they are regarding costs and timelines. A reliable builder will present a detailed estimate and be candid about possible overruns or delays. Inquire about the types of materials they utilize and whether they provide 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 completed.

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 homes in a factory environment where different sections, or modules, of the house are preassembled in a controlled setting. These modules are then transported to the building site and put together on a foundation.

Modular construction enables quicker completion times, as work is not hindered by weather or site conditions, and materials are kept indoors, protecting them from the elements. The factory environment also allows for stricter quality control and consistent building standards. Modular homes can be designed to meet or exceed local building codes, making them a reliable and cost-effective choice for those seeking a faster and more efficient 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 throughout the build, with adjustments and changes easily made as the project progresses. However, on-site builds are more vulnerable to weather delays and require careful coordination of trades like framers, plumbers, and electricians, which can extend the project timeline.

While on-site construction may take longer and involve more complexities, it allows for greater customization and local expertise, making it ideal for projects that need a unique design or adaptation to specific environmental factors at the site. Both methods have their benefits, but modular builders focus on speed and efficiency, while on-site builders offer flexibility and hands-on involvement.

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 enjoy the advantages of a modern, efficient living space tailored to meet your needs. Whether you’re looking to add a snug retreat in your backyard, establish 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 reflects your unique lifestyle and vision. Your dream tiny home is waiting!

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