Tiny House Definition

Tiny houses are moveable dwellings up to 50m2 that are suitable for residential use. Tiny houses can be largely grouped into 3 categories: on wheels, on skids or shipping containers.

Rational for defining a definition

Tiny house definition that

• is easy to visualize

• describes in a consistent manner to individuals, groups and media

• grounds conversation relating to definition to then get to the heart of topics and collaboration without stalling on defining the definition

• responds to the challenges ATHA have experienced to date as a key opening question.  “Define a tiny house? “

What are others defining as tiny house?

• US definition is loosely advocating a size only being under 400 square feet ie 37m2

• NZ definition none available however ‘Bryce’ has indicated that the largest galvanizing plant in NZ is for an 8m trailer hence a 19.2m2 footprint.

• A 12m shipping container is 28.8m2, which then allows a coupling with a smaller 6m container.

• 50m2 also include loft space

Other related notes to defining the definition

• Issues arising from local and state understandings of tiny houses and how they are regulated from a local laws, planning regs, transport regs and  building regs are the issues that ATHA need to champion and advocate drive change and acceptance for tiny houses at numerous levels.

• ATHA have not included Granny flats/dependent person units, transportable, modular or prefab homes as these are required to meet the Building Code of Australia Vol 2 for housing. Generally, if it needs a planning permit it needs to comply with the BCA.

https://tinyhouse.org.au/tiny-house-definition/