Movable Tiny Homes Now Allowed in Ojai!

Ojai has officially approved movable tiny homes! Whether you’re dreaming of downsizing, adding a rental unit, or building a creative backyard retreat, now is the time to bring your tiny home vision to life.

  • Ojai is offering 20 permits in the first year (through June 2026).

  • Each residential property may host 1 movable tiny home.

  • Commercially zoned properties may host up to 2 tiny homes.

  • Ordinance allows a tiny home even if you already have an ADU and Junior ADU.

FAQs

How much do permits cost?
The city has not yet announced fees. We’ll update as soon as details are available.

How long does the permit process take?
We’re awaiting final word from the city. Check back soon.

What do I need to get started?
Download the [Ojai Zoning Permit Checklist PDF] for city requirements.

Can I build one myself?
Yes! We provide plans, permit support, and even partially built shells to give you a head start.

Do you help with permits?
Yes—for an additional fee, we provide site plans, elevations, and onsite walkthroughs to help you secure approval.

How do I start with Venture Tiny Homes?

  1. Confirm eligibility – Ensure your property meets zoning and access requirements.

    • We offer a site walk consultation for $300.

  2. Reserve your spot – Sign a reservation agreement to secure your place in line.

  3. Design + Permit – We’ll help design your tiny home and guide you through the permitting process.

Our Projects

Approved

  • Mountain Ave – Photos coming soon

  • Montgomery St – Photos coming soon

Coming Soon

  • Shady Ln

  • Fox St

  • Grand Ave

Helpful Links

Ojai Permit Checklist

Permit Fees

  • Base Fee: $112

  • Ground Disturbance Fee: $75

Tiny House Site Plan Requirements

Your site plan must show:

  • Location of the proposed tiny house

  • Setbacks from front, side, and rear property lines (per Ojai Municipal Code)

  • Utility line sizes and details of trenching (length, depth, and width)

  • Location of trees and their driplines

  • Existing or proposed fences

  • Deck specifications (if applicable)

Note: The site plan does not need to be professionally drawn.

Documentation Required

  • Proof of DMV license and registration for the movable tiny house

  • ANSI certification (sticker) if pre-manufactured and sited

  • Contact information for a third-party inspector/inspection service if built on-site

Additional Permits & Applications

Applicants must also submit:

  • Miscellaneous Permit for Address Assignment

  • Building Permit Application

  • Tree Permit Application (if applicable)

  • Fence Permit Application (if applicable)

  • Ojai Valley Sanitary District “Can and Will Serve” Letter (if applicable)

Composting Toilet Requirements (if proposed)

If you plan to use a composting toilet instead of connecting to the sewer line, you must provide:

  • A composting toilet site plan

  • Manufacturer specifications for the composting toilet

  • A health and safety waste disposal plan

  • Name of the third-party company responsible for black waste disposal

Important: On-site disposal of black waste is not permitted. All disposal must be handled by a third-party service.