Austin Could Legalize Tiny Homes, RVs as ADUs

The Austin city council could expand the definition of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to include structures known as ‘tiny homes’ and recreational vehicles (RVs) in single-family neighborhoods, writes Jo Clifton in the Austin Monitor.

A resolution before the council asks the city manager to propose changes to the Development Code to accommodate tiny homes and RVs as ADUs. “As the resolution states, Austin’s current Land Development Code only allows RVs within lots zoned for campgrounds, mobile homes and some other commercially zoned uses, but not within single-family zoned districts.” 

To address concerns about ADUs being used as short-term rentals rather than contributing to housing stock, an updated version of the resolution “asks the city manager to propose regulations that would require registration with the city if the unit is to be used as a short-term rental.”

Council Member Leslie Pool, who sponsored the resolution, said smaller, more affordable ADUs can enable homeowners to live “a more environmentally conscious, financially stable, and minimalist lifestyle” without the expense of a full-sized residential unit.