Yes, in most cases you need a planning permission to place a tiny house in Belgium. There is no specific tiny house legislation — your tiny house falls under the existing rules for spatial planning and urban development. The regulations differ by region (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels) and even by municipality.
Key takeaways
- A planning permission is almost always required if you want to live in a tiny house
- The rules vary by region and municipality
- In Flanders, the minimum net floor area is 18 m² for an independent dwelling
- A tiny house as a care home (zorgwoning) may qualify for a simplified procedure
- The application process takes on average 30 to 120 days
What permit do you need for a tiny house?
In Belgium, a tiny house is considered a construction under urban planning legislation. This means that to place, build or use one, you generally need a planning permission.
This applies to:
- Tiny houses on fixed foundations (modular)
- Tiny houses on wheels that are permanently placed in one location
- Tiny houses serving as a primary residence
Only if your tiny house is used purely for recreational purposes and meets certain conditions may an exception apply — but this varies greatly between municipalities.
Regulations by region
Flanders
In Flanders, the Flemish Codex for Spatial Planning (VCRO) applies. The main points:
- An environmental permit (omgevingsvergunning) is mandatory for placing a tiny house
- The net floor area must be at least 18 m² for an independent dwelling (Flemish Housing Code)
- Your tiny house must meet EPB requirements (energy performance) for new constructions
- The municipality assesses whether the zoning plan allows tiny houses on your plot
- In residential zones, the chances of a positive assessment are highest
- In agricultural or nature zones, placing a dwelling is generally not permitted
Exceptions in Flanders
- Care home (zorgwoning): Since 2021, a clear framework exists for care units. A simple notification may suffice instead of a full permit application.
- Temporary constructions: For structures that remain for a maximum of 90 days, a relaxed regime may apply.
Wallonia
In Wallonia, the rules of the Code du Développement Territorial (CoDT) apply:
- A permis d’urbanisme is required for placing a tiny house
- The rules are broadly comparable to Flanders, but procedures go through Walloon municipalities
- Tiny houses within the framework of habitat léger (light dwelling) are receiving increasing attention in Walloon policy
- The concept of zone d’habitat is decisive for the possibilities
Brussels
In the Brussels-Capital Region:
- There is no specific legal framework for tiny houses
- The Brussels Code for Spatial Planning imposes surface area and height requirements that are difficult to reconcile with most tiny houses
- The possibilities are most limited in Brussels due to high population density and strict spatial planning
How do you apply for a planning permission?
The application process generally works as follows:
Step 1: Enquire with your municipality
Contact the Urban Planning Department of your municipality. They can tell you whether the zoning plan of your plot allows a tiny house and which specific rules apply.
Step 2: Prepare your file
A permit application typically includes:
- Site plan of the plot
- Construction plans (floor plan, elevations, sections)
- Technical specifications of the tiny house
- EPB report (for new constructions in Flanders)
- Photos of the existing situation
Step 3: Submit your application
In Flanders, you submit the application via the Environmental Desk (Omgevingsloket) — a digital platform. In Wallonia and Brussels, applications go through the respective municipal services.
Step 4: Public enquiry
Depending on the nature of your application, a public enquiry may follow, during which neighbours and other stakeholders can raise objections.
Step 5: Decision
The municipality makes a decision, typically within 30 to 120 days of submission. If approved, you receive the permit and can start with the installation.
Frequently asked questions
Can you place a tiny house in your garden?
That depends on the zoning plan and municipal regulations. In many cases, it is possible to place a tiny house as an outbuilding or care home in your garden, provided you meet the conditions. Always check with your municipality first.
Can a tiny house be placed on agricultural land?
In principle, no. Agricultural land is designated for farming activities and placing a dwelling is generally not permitted there. There are very limited exceptions, for example for farmers who wish to live on their holding.
What about tiny houses on campsites or holiday parks?
Tiny houses on campsites or holiday parks fall under the regime for recreational residences. The rules are more flexible, but in most cases you cannot live there permanently.
What if my municipality refuses the permit?
You can appeal to the Provincial Executive (Flanders) or the functionally competent authority (Wallonia/Brussels). It is advisable to seek legal advice for this purpose.
The regulations around tiny houses are constantly evolving. At Tiny House Heavens, we are happy to help you navigate the permit process. Our modular tiny houses are designed to comply with current building regulations. Contact us for personalised advice on your project.