Minnesota does allow tiny homes on wheels (THOWs), but the rules depend heavily on where you plan to park or live in one. At the state level, THOWs are treated like RVs, meaning they typically need to be placed in RV parks, campgrounds, or mobile home zones. Permanent tiny homes, on the other hand, must follow the Minnesota Residential Code, including Appendix Q, which outlines building standards for homes under 400 sq ft. Some areas, like Minneapolis and St. Paul, have adopted clearer zoning for ADUs and small dwellings, while others may require extra permits or a permanent foundation. To help you understand what’s required where you live, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to tiny home rules and regulations throughout Minnesota.
Ready to experience the charm of tiny living without sacrificing comfort? Our park model homes are thoughtfully designed to fit your lifestyle. Experience open layouts, smart storage, and stylish finishes that make every square foot feel intentional. Step into the A-Frame Classic and see how cozy design meets modern functionality. You’ll be amazed at how spacious and comfortable “tiny” can truly feel!
Built for Minnesota’s cold winters and warm summers, park model homes are designed with superior insulation, efficient heating, and ventilation systems that keep you comfortable year-round.
Affordable Freedom
Enjoy the benefits of homeownership without the high mortgage or upkeep. Park model homes use less energy, cost less to maintain, and give you more financial freedom to live the life you want.
Flexibility
From the North Shore to Lake Minnetonka, park models fit right into Minnesota’s lake and cabin culture. It’s perfect for weekend getaways or full-time retreats wherever zoning allows.
Sustainable Living
Smaller spaces mean smaller footprints. Park model homes let you live intentionally, reducing waste, energy use, and clutter while embracing a lifestyle that’s focused on quality over quantity.
Yes. Every tiny home built at Zook Cabins meets RVIA ANSI 119.5 Park Model standards. That means your home is crafted for durability, built with care, and designed to serve as a comfortable place where lasting memories can unfold for years to come.
Yes, tiny houses are legal in Minnesota, but the rules depend on how they’re built and where you plan to place them.
At the state level, Minnesota follows the 2020 Minnesota Residential Code, which includes Appendix Q for tiny homes under 400 sq ft built on a permanent foundation. That means foundation-built tiny homes are allowed statewide as long as they meet residential code standards and pass inspections.
Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs), however, are treated like RVs or park model trailers, so they’re typically limited to RV parks, campgrounds, or zones that allow mobile living—not standard residential lots.
Because zoning varies by city and county, it’s important to confirm local requirements before building or parking your home. Some areas, like Minneapolis and St. Paul, have adopted more flexible rules for ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units), while rural counties may require specific permits or permanent foundations.
For official guidance, contact the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry – Construction Codes and Licensing Division at (651) 284-5012 or visit their office at 443 Lafayette Road N, St. Paul, MN 55155.
Yes, there are a few tiny home communities in Minnesota. The most notable is The Sanctuary Minnesota Tiny House Village in Ogilvie, which offers peaceful, nature-filled living for park model RVs and THOWs, with monthly lot rentals around $350–$450. Another is Avivo Village in Minneapolis, an indoor tiny home community focused on transitional housing. While private ownership options are still limited, several RV parks and mobile home communities across the state are becoming tiny home friendly, especially in areas with flexible zoning.
No, park model tiny homes aren’t considered mobile homes in Minnesota. They’re classified as recreational vehicles (RVs), meaning they must follow RV placement rules. They are usually limited to RV parks or campgrounds unless local zoning allows permanent installation on a foundation.
Yes! No matter where you’re located in Minnesota, we can deliver your tiny home right to your property, statewide or across the country. If you’re not sure your site is ready, our team can visit to review the layout and identify any potential issues ahead of time. And if adjustments are needed, we’ll provide simple, practical recommendations to ensure a smooth, stress-free delivery day.
Ideal Locations for Your Park Model Tiny Homes in Minnesota
From the lake-filled landscapes of central Minnesota to the scenic forests of the North Shore, the state offers countless places to make your park model home feel perfectly at home. Browse the ideas below to imagine where your tiny living journey could begin.
Twin Cities Metro Area: If you love convenience and connection, the Minneapolis–St. Paul area is ideal. With growing interest in ADUs and flexible zoning in select neighborhoods, it’s perfect for those who want a tiny home lifestyle close to city amenities, dining, and entertainment.
Brainerd Lakes Region: Minnesota’s classic cabin country. The Brainerd area is known for its peaceful lake views, fishing spots, and cozy communities, making it a favorite destination for weekend getaways and seasonal park model living.
North Shore & Duluth: For breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure, the North Shore can’t be beat. Enjoy hiking along Lake Superior, fall color drives, and snowy winter charm. Park model living here feels like having your own private retreat in nature’s playground.
Southern Minnesota: If you prefer rolling farmland and quiet countryside, southern Minnesota offers space and simplicity. Towns near Mankato and Rochester provide a relaxed pace of life with easy access to amenities, perfect for full-time park model living.
Central Minnesota: The heart of the state blends small-town living with access to lakes and outdoor recreation. Areas like St. Cloud and Little Falls offer affordable land, making them great spots for park model placements or future tiny home communities.
Check out our full guide to tiny home regulations in Minnesota to learn where you can place your park model and start planning your next adventure.
We are so happy that we were able to get a Sierra Park Model Cabin from Zook’s. Matt was extremely patient and responsive to my emails. He did his best to answer my questions throughout the process. The cabin is…
I recently purchased two park models from ZOOK. I had a great experience working with them. I am on the West coast and they were delivered to me within a week of when they were promised. They were delivered separately…
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I bought a park model home for our hunting farm. I can’t say enough good things about the service and communication I received throughout the entire process. Alan and his team were very responsive and everything about the cabin was…
I purchased the Sierra Park Model and worked with Allan Fisher. He was very professional and helped guide us through the entire process. I truly appreciated his honestly, timely responses and superb customer service. The driver who delivered our new…
Bought a Sierra Park Model Log home from Zook Cabins about a couple of months ago and just love it ! Cabin is certified as a RV and fully furnished with 1BR, 1Bath, 2 loft beds, 1 daybed in LR…
It was a pleasure from start to finish working with Leon & team at Zook Cabins. The quality of our park model Sahara is very good and well designed. I would recommend (and I am) them to anyone looking at…
Purchased the Pocono Park Model home from Zook. Leon was easy to work with, and while the delivery date was a little delayed due to supply chain issues it was delivered safely on January 4, 2023 to my property in…
We purchased thr Rancher Park Model from Zook Cabins for our spot in Rhode Island. Delivery was timely and the unit is beautiful. It’s very well built and beautifully finished. Zook made everything very easy and were flexible with design.…
When it comes to service and phenomenal communication look no further than Zook and Leon Fisher, our park model home coordinator, clearly representing how a company would go from good to great. This is “the” model for customer service.
Leon was wonderful throughout the entire process of us purchasing our Park model cabin. He was very educated and answered so many of our questions! We love our cabin and would recommend this company to anybody. One of my favorite…
