Can You Live in a Modular Cabin as Your Primary Residence?

Front exterior of a Pine Cone Park Model with stained wood siding, brown trim, a brown metal roof, a fenced-in front porch, white windows, and white glass double doors.

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Can You Live in a Modular Cabin as Your Primary Residence?

Tiny home living is growing in popularity as a way to lower living costs and simplify your life. That’s why many of our clients at Trailside Structures ask us if they can use our modular cabins as their primary residence. The short answer is yes, you can make a modular cabin your primary residence! There are a few legal strings attached that you’ll have to navigate, however. Here’s all you need to know before making a modular cabin your primary residence.

Why is Tiny Home Living so Great?

Tiny home living is an increasingly popular lifestyle choice for those seeking simplicity, sustainability, and financial freedom. By downsizing to a smaller space, you can significantly reduce your living expenses, including utility bills, maintenance costs, and property taxes. A smaller footprint means less clutter, promoting a minimalist lifestyle that emphasizes experiences over possessions. Additionally, tiny homes use less energy to heat and cool, making them an eco-friendly option that reduces your carbon footprint. For those looking to escape high rental or mortgage payments, tiny homes offer an affordable alternative.

Interior of a Meadowlark Park Model kitchen with light wood cabinets, a stainless steel fridge, a black microwave, white countertops, open shelves, white and gray plank walls, gray vinyl plank flooring, and a dining area with 2 bar stools.

How Modular Cabins Make Excellent Primary Residences

Modular cabins or park model trailers are an ideal choice for anyone interested in tiny home living. Built with the same high-quality materials as traditional homes, modular houses provide a sturdy and durable structure that can withstand the elements. One of the significant advantages of modular cabins is their customizable design. At Trailside Structures, we offer a variety of floor plans and finishes, allowing you to tailor your cabin to fit your personal preferences. Our modular buildings are constructed in a controlled environment, which often results in a quicker build time and reduced costs compared to conventional homes. Plus, these cabins are built to meet or exceed building codes, ensuring that your new home is both safe and comfortable.

Another benefit of modular cabins is their versatility. Whether you’re placing your cabin in a rural or suburban setting, modular cabins can be adapted to suit its environment. They easily attach to local utilities and/or well water and septic systems, depending on your location. With appliance hook-ups built into every modular cabin, you’re ready to move in with all of the essentials right away.

A bathroom in a Meadowlark Park Model with light wood plank walls, gray vinyl plank flooring, a brown wood ceiling, a sink vanity with a mirror, a white toilet, and vanity lighting.

The Legality of Living in a Modular Cabin

While living in a modular cabin as your primary residence is entirely feasible, it’s essential to navigate the legal aspects before making the transition. Check the zoning of the plot of land you’re considering living on to ensure it’s zoned for residential living. Then, it’s crucial to consult with your local zoning office to ensure that your modular cabin complies with all regulations. Building codes can vary widely depending on your municipality. Some areas may have specific requirements for minimum square footage, foundation types, or even restrictions on where modular homes can be placed on a plot.

In addition to zoning regulations, you’ll need to secure the appropriate permits before placing your modular cabin on your property. This may include building permits, electrical permits, and plumbing permits, among others. It’s advisable to work with a knowledgeable contractor or builder who is familiar with local regulations to help with the foundation and utilities.

Start Your Journey to a Tiny Home Life Today!

As you have read, tiny home living is a wonderful way to live a minimalist lifestyle and it’s extremely convenient to use a modular home as your primary residence. Although you should check with your municipal zoning officer before taking the leap, Trailside Structures is where you can purchase your modular cabin. All of our cabins come with connections for plumbing and appliances, giving you one less thing to worry about. Contact us today to get started!