Understanding Special Regulations for Park Model Homes in Florida

What you need to know before placing a park model home in the Sunshine State

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What is a “Park Model Home”?

In Florida, a “park model” is typically a compact, factory‑built living unit, often categorized under recreational vehicle (RV) or park trailer regulations rather than under standard manufactured housing regulations.

Key traits:

• Often built on a chassis for transport
• Usually sized under certain thresholds (see below)
• Frequently placed in RV parks or on leased lots, though private placement may be possible, with caveats.

Florida’s Unique Regulatory Framework

Size & Standards

• Florida statute §320.8231 states that park trailers built to ANSI A‑119.5 may not exceed 400 square feet of living area when set up. However, Florida allows a special “HUD park model” version up to 500 square feet under HUD standards.
• “Park trailer” is defined in §320.01(1)(b) as a transportable unit built on a single chassis.
• The unit must meet standards for plumbing, heating, electrical systems, and fire/life safety.

Placement & Zoning: RV vs Residential

• Under Florida Administrative Code Rule 64E‑15.002, a “Recreational Vehicle Space” in an RV park may include “one recreational vehicle, one park model recreational vehicle… or one tent.”
• A major implication: Many park models placed in Florida are treated as RVs in RV parks rather than as standard homes. This affects how long they may be occupied, the land’s zoning classification, and the availability of utilities and services.
• Separate from RV parks, separate regulation governs mobile home parks under Chapter 723. If a unit or park acts like a mobile‑home community, a different law may apply.

Park or Lot Licensing & Use

• If the park model is placed in an RV park or resort, the park must comply with Chapter 513 (Mobile Home & RV Parks), which sets out permitting, health/sanitation, annual inspections, and other standards.
• If placing a park model on private land as a longer‑term residence, check local zoning, building code, foundation requirements, and whether the unit may be classified as a “dwelling” rather than an RV. Many counties treat park models differently from conventional homes.

Key Considerations for Buyers & Owners

1. Zoning & Land Use
   • Confirm the property is zoned to allow park models / RVs as a primary residence or accessory living unit. Some jurisdictions only allow them in RV parks or for seasonal use.
   • If the intent is full‑time residence, verify whether local ordinances permit this use of a park model.
2. Utility & Site Requirements
   • Park models typically hook into standard utilities (water, sewer or septic, electric). In RV park settings, the utilities may be configured for RV use rather than full residential permanent use.
   • Ensure the installation meets code for foundations, tie‑downs (especially in hurricane zones), and that the chassis and structure comply with Florida statute.
3. Registration, Title & Taxation
   • Because park models are often classified as “recreational vehicles” rather than manufactured homes, the owner may face different registration rules, moving restrictions, and tax status.
   • Property tax treatment can differ if the unit is considered personal property vs real property.
4. Occupancy & Duration
   • Many RV park regulations distinguish between “transient” and “non‑transient” occupancy. If staying long‑term, different rules may apply.
   • If the unit is on leased land, relocation may be required if the lease ends or the park changes its rules.
5. Insurance & Resale Value
   • Because park models are structurally different from traditional homes, some lenders or insurers may treat them like RVs. The resale market may also differ.
6. Code & Standard Compliance
   • Confirm the unit complies with ANSI A‑119.5 or, in the Florida special case, HUD standards if over 400 sq ft.
   • If installing on private land as a permanent residence, check whether the local building code requires manufactured‑home foundation standards or sight‑built home standards.

Why These Rules Matter

• Florida’s unique climate (hurricanes, flooding) means structural and installation standards must account for higher risk.
• The distinction between RV park placement and residential zoning affects long‑term ownership rights, ability to mortgage, financing, and community stability.
• A clear understanding of classification helps avoid surprises, such as zoning violations, inability to get occupancy, or complications if the park model needs relocating.

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Final Takeaways

If you’re considering a park model home in Florida:

• Confirm exactly how the unit will be classified and placed (RV park, leased lot, your land).
• Check zoning, site preparation, and utility hookup viability.
• Understand the size limit (400 sq ft: standard; up to 500 sq ft for HUD version) and ensure compliance with the correct standards.
• Verify occupancy rules (seasonal vs. full‑time) and what happens if you lease the lot.
• Look at long‑term implications: financing, insurance, resale value, and mobility.

By doing the homework early, you’ll be far better positioned to enjoy a park model lifestyle in Florida, with the confidence that you’re operating within the specialized regulatory framework.