Adding a Tiny Home in Vashon, Washington

Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Puget Sound and its lush, forested landscapes, Vashon, Washington, is an ideal spot for homeowners interested in adding a tiny home, modular ADU, or guest house to their property.

While the prospect of adding a tiny home to your land is exciting, the process can feel overwhelming. Vashon, like every area, has its own specific requirements for permits, construction, and the installation of a modular accessory dwelling unit. The obstacles you may encounter can range from simple to quite complex, depending on the local regulations and site conditions.

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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Assessing whether a tiny home is the right choice for you

Determining whether a tiny home is the right fit depends on your specific needs and goals. For homeowners with existing property, adding a modular tiny home can be an efficient way to create additional living space without the expense and disruption of traditional construction. It can serve as a guest house, private retreat, or rental unit, providing flexibility and potential income. If you’re considering purchasing new property, a tiny home offers a quicker and more affordable path to homeownership while still allowing you to live in a desirable location.

Tiny homes also work well for families looking to bring a relative closer, offering independence within a shared space. Additionally, they provide an opportunity for those seeking investment income through rental properties. To help you decide if a tiny home is the right option for you, consider the following:

  • Do you need additional living space on your existing property?
  • Are you interested in a cost-effective, quick-to-build housing solution?
  • Is generating rental income through a secondary unit appealing to you?
  • Are you considering a private space for a family member while sharing a property?
  • Do you want to embrace a minimalist, sustainable lifestyle in a smaller home?

What is the permitting process like for homeowners in Vashon, Washington?

The permitting process starts by identifying the appropriate governing authority for your location. Depending on the site, you’ll either need to submit permits to the city or its overarching jurisdiction, typically the county. Most jurisdictions provide zoning and building code information on their websites.

Once you’ve determined the correct authority, the next step is to confirm which types of structures are permitted. This will vary based on whether the unit will serve as the primary residence or an additional dwelling. Additional units are often classified as accessory dwelling units (ADUs), secondary dwellings, guest houses, or hardship accommodations. ADUs can be either attached to the main structure or stand alone as detached units.

Consulting with a tiny home permit expert or building planner early in the process can help you save both time and money, significantly simplifying the permit approval journey.

Getting the paperwork started

1. Identify the Governing Authority

Determine whether your permit application needs to be submitted to the city or the broader governing jurisdiction, typically the county. The appropriate authority depends on your property’s location.

2. Access Online Zoning and Building Codes

Visit the relevant jurisdiction’s website to review zoning regulations and building codes. These resources will help you understand the requirements for your project.

3. Confirm the Types of Permitted Structures

Check which types of structures are allowed on your property. Verify whether your tiny home or ADU will be considered a primary residence or a secondary unit, such as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), guest house, or hardship dwelling.

4. Determine the ADU Type

Identify whether your ADU will be attached to the main home or a detached, standalone structure. This will impact the specific permitting requirements.

5. Consult with a Permit Expert or Planner

Engage a tiny home permit expert or building planner early in the process. Their guidance can help you navigate the process efficiently and avoid costly delays or errors.

6. Prepare Detailed Plans

Develop detailed building plans, including structure type, layout, utility connections, and placement on the property. Ensure these plans comply with local zoning and building codes.

7. Submit the Permit Application

Submit your permit application along with the required building plans to the identified governing body (city or county). This can often be done online, depending on the jurisdiction.

8. Pay Permit Fees

Pay the required permit fees, which vary depending on the scope of the project and the jurisdiction.

9. Schedule Inspections

Once construction begins, schedule inspections at various stages of the build (e.g., foundation, framing, electrical) to ensure compliance with local codes.

10. Receive Final Approval

After completing all required inspections, you will receive final approval or a certificate of occupancy, allowing you to officially occupy or use the tiny home or ADU.

Following these steps will help you efficiently navigate the building permit process in your area.

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 clear understanding of your project’s requirements. Begin by assessing the builder’s experience, especially in constructing homes that match the size, design, and complexity of the one you have in mind.

An experienced builder will have a portfolio showcasing their skills and craftsmanship. Reviewing customer feedback, reading testimonials, and talking to previous clients can provide valuable insights into their dependability, quality of work, and ability to meet deadlines. It’s also essential to confirm that the builder has a solid grasp of local building codes and regulations, as this knowledge is key to ensuring a smooth permitting process and successful project completion.

Beyond technical proficiency, consider how well the builder communicates and their transparency regarding costs and timelines. A reputable builder will give you a detailed estimate and be upfront about potential cost overruns or delays. Inquire about the types of materials they use and whether they provide warranties or post-project support. These elements are vital in ensuring your home is built with durable, high-quality materials and that you receive ongoing support after completion.

In the end, the ideal home builder should combine experience, transparency, and effective 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 environment, where the different sections, or modules, of the home are pre-fabricated in a controlled setting. These modules are then transported to the construction site and assembled on a foundation.

Modular building allows for quicker completion, as progress isn’t affected by weather or site conditions, and materials are stored indoors, protecting them from environmental damage. The factory setting also ensures tighter quality control and consistent building standards. Modular homes can be tailored to meet or surpass local building regulations, making them a dependable and cost-effective option for those seeking a faster and more streamlined construction process. In contrast, an on-site home builder constructs homes directly on the property where they will be located. This traditional method, often referred to as stick-built construction, provides more flexibility throughout the build, allowing for modifications and changes as the project evolves. However, on-site construction is more prone to weather-related delays and requires the careful coordination of various trades like framers, plumbers, and electricians, which can lengthen the project timeline.

While on-site construction may take longer and involve more complexities, it offers greater customization and the benefit of local expertise, making it ideal for projects requiring a unique design or adjustments to the specific environmental conditions of the property. Both approaches have their strengths: modular builders focus on speed and efficiency, while on-site builders emphasize flexibility and direct 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 creating the tiny home you've always envisioned?

Ready to enhance your living space with a tiny home? Our experienced team is here to assist you through every stage, from navigating the permit process to designing your ideal home. With a focus on quality and sustainability, we ensure you’ll enjoy a modern, energy-efficient space tailored to your needs. Whether you’re planning to add a cozy retreat to your backyard, generate rental income, or embrace a simpler lifestyle, we have the perfect solution for you.

Don’t delay in turning your tiny home vision into reality! Get in touch with us today to learn more about our turn-key tiny homes and how we can support you at every step. Let’s embark on this exciting adventure together and craft a home that truly reflects your lifestyle and vision. Your dream tiny home is just a step away!

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