Tiny homes look cute, can be affordable and propose to offer a simpler existence. And they are growing increasingly popular as more people are taking the less-is-more approach when it comes to housing.

But good luck finding a community in the Grand Traverse area where they are allowed to be built. The problem? They are too small.

Also known as micro or small houses, the 300 to 500 square foot footprints do not meet the minimum size requirements for single-family houses in zoning ordinances across the region.

Northern Michigan got its first up close look at the tiny home trend when The Ticker reported on a proposed development at the seasonal Traverse Bay RV Resort. At that time, owners David and Kathy Scheppe’s plan was to cater to those seeking a “top of the line” design targeted at vacationers, snowbirds and part-time residents. The Scheppes were contacted for an update on the project, but declined comment on its status.

Bill Clous, president of Eastwood Custom Homes in Traverse City, is happy to talk about the tiny home trend. He’s also frustrated that he can’t build them.

“It’s a zoning condition,” says Clous. “That is the only obstacle or challenge.”

The average cost of a tiny home is $25,000 to $50,000 nationwide, though more sophisticated design and materials can increase the price substantially. The ones Clous envisions building would address a lack of reasonably-priced housing.

“Private industry, and by that I mean home builders, could do a lot to help solve the affordable housing problem if it weren’t for zoning not allowing for affordable housing,” Clous says.

Tiny homes are sometimes cast as a solution in more rural areas where the land costs are lower, but those areas often don’t have the infrastructure (i.e. water and sewer) that are critical to the affordability of the construction. On the flip side, in urban areas the infrastructure is there but the land costs can be prohibitive. But by and large, it comes down to zoning that requires larger structures.

“If I was allowed to build a tiny home, it would be a lot like a studio apartment … between 300 and 500 square feet,” says Clous, adding that he has seen wonderful designs as small as 12' x 24' but he envisions a 20' x 20' footprint with a front porch and a back patio.

“I have employees who would buy those,” he adds, and also sees a much larger market. “I’m sure I could sell one a week, if I could get a permit. I would even step out and build three or four on spec right away.”

So is this something local governments might look at?

Brian VanDenBrand, deputy planner for the Charter Township of Garfield, says the township has yet to be presented with a tiny home development proposal.

“Garfield hasn’t talked about it,” VanDenBrand says. “Potentially, as a planned unit development (PUD), someone could ask for it as the PUD process allows the township to vary from regular zoning ordinance requirements. But, nobody has asked.”

The issue of minimum-size residences made big news in Leelanau County a few years ago when a couple in Centerville Township attempted to live in housing smaller than the minimum requirement of 800 square feet. As a result, Centerville and some neighboring townships started taking a look at the issue, citing the emerging tiny home trend.

“It’s probably possible in a lot more places than most people would think,” says VanDenBrand, “But you would need a creative idea and a planning consultant who really understands the intricacies and tools of planning and zoning.”