The Kalispell City Council unanimously approved Ordinance 1956 on Monday, adding regulations for tiny homes and adopting updated construction standards.

The ordinance adopts the 2024 Building Codes and the 2023 National Electrical Code. It also adds a tiny homes appendix to the city code, following the Kalispell Land Use Plan, Plan-It 2045.

Rules Apply to Homes Under 400 Square Feet

The appendix applies to single-family and two-family homes of 400 square feet or less. It reduces minimum size requirements for sleeping rooms, living rooms and other occupiable spaces.

Sean McRae said the changes primarily address the smaller dimensions of the homes. “Mainly it comes down to size,” McRae said, referring to the reduced requirements for rooms and occupiable areas.

PJ Sorensen said existing codes address homes above 400 square feet and those between 400 and 1,000 square feet. “Where this appendix kicks in is 400 sq. ft. or less,” Sorensen said.

The council approved the ordinance after receiving no public comments.