Tiny Homes in St. Paul, Minnesota
St. Paul, Minnesota tiny home and ADU regulations: up to 2 ADUs per lot under Ordinance 23-43, max 800 sq ft each. Sacred Settlements active. THOWs classified as RVs.
Last researched April 2026
Why St. Paul
St. Paul, Minnesota offers unique opportunities for tiny home living. With a population of 311,527, the city provides a mix of urban convenience and community charm for those looking to downsize. Explore zoning rules, find local builders, and discover parking options below.
Zoning & Placement
As of April 2026, St. Paul allows up to two ADUs per single-family lot under Ordinance 23-43 (enacted 2023). Each ADU can be up to 800 sq ft or 75% of the principal dwelling's floor area, whichever is greater. Detached ADUs in accessory buildings can be up to 25 ft tall regardless of the principal dwelling height. ADU regulations are found in Section 65.913 of the St. Paul Zoning Code, with accessory building standards in Section 63.501. The 2020 Minnesota Residential Code applies, including IRC Appendix Q for tiny homes under 400 sq ft. St. Paul also hosts Sacred Settlement communities under the 2024 state law, with active micro-unit housing at Mosaic Christian Community. The pending Starter Home Act could further expand density allowances. Contact St. Paul Department of Safety & Inspections for current permit requirements.
Verify current requirements with your local planning department.
What to verify locally
- • Confirm whether your tiny home will be treated as an ADU, a site-built dwelling, or a recreational vehicle.
- • Ask about utility hookup requirements, especially sewer, electrical service, and emergency-access setbacks.
- • Check whether long-term occupancy is allowed on the lot type you are considering.
- • Verify minimum square footage requirements for your zone classification.
Where to Park
Communities, RV parks, and parking options in and near St. Paul.
As of April 2026, THOWs are classified as recreational vehicles in St. Paul and cannot serve as permanent residences on standard residential lots. THOWs must be parked in licensed RV parks or designated mobile home zones. The Sacred Settlements law (effective January 2024) provides an alternative pathway for micro-unit housing on religious institution property, with Mosaic Christian Community operating an active settlement in St. Paul. Contact St. Paul Zoning for current RV parking regulations.
Costs
A comparison between tiny-home living and conventional homeownership in St. Paul.
Builder cost range
Average tiny home builder costs in the St. Paul area. Actual prices vary by size, materials, and customization.
Resources
Verified links for planning, permitting, and community connections in St. Paul.
Guides for Minnesota Buyers
Guides, zoning explainers, and financing articles related to this state.
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