Yurts have been used as housing for three thousand years and originated in Central Asia.
Even today, many people in rural Mongolia still use yurts as their primary housing.
Many years ago, few people in the United States would consider living in a yurt, many Americans haven’t even heard of yurts.
Due to the minimalist living style of yurts, yurts appeal to many people looking for an alternative to traditional house In recent years.
For people who want to experience yurt, there will be a common question-can I live in a yurt for a long time?
This article will give you a comprehensive introduction to how to live in a yurt for a long time and the things you need to pay attention to.
Where Living?
The first step in determining whether you can live in a yurt is to determine where you plan to live. Rural Areas? urban or suburban?
If you choose to live in a rural area, you may have more freedom in choosing a location. Be closer to nature, and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. But, there are limits to finding jobs and access to amenities maybe. You may need to install your own utilities like water and electricity.
If you plan to live in Urban, Urban areas offer access to a wide range of amenities and services. Finding space for a yurt might be challenging due to limited land availability and zoning restrictions. Noise and a lack of privacy could also be concerns.
Suburban areas strike a balance between rural and urban living. You can enjoy a quieter environment while still accessing some amenities and services. Zoning regulations can still pose challenges, so you may need to research local regulations carefully.
Can I Legally Reside in a Yurt Year-Round?
To say “yes” or “no” would be too simple because there are many factors that could affect the answer to this complex issue.
Different states and cities have different zoning rules. Some places have specific rules for alternative housing like yurts. You may need permission from local authorities before setting up a yurt for living in.
Yurts used for a living generally have to follow building codes and safety standards. Each state has its own set of building codes that cover things like strength, safety, insulation, electricity, and more. If you live in a community with a homeowners’ association (HOA) or other rules, there might be restrictions that make it hard to set up a yurt.
In summary, find out what the zoning and building rules are in the place where you want to put your yurt. Contact the local planning or building department for details. You could also talk to architects, builders, or engineers who know about alternative housing structures. They can help make sure your yurt meets the rules for building and safety.
The Advantages of Living in a Yurt
The reason why living in the yurts is so popular is that it has its unique advantages. For those who have never experienced living in a yurt, this kind of life is full of temptations.
Connection to Nature: Yurts have an open design and simple living that can offer a special chance to connect with nature. Living in a yurt can help you build a deep bond with the earth and learn how to live in balance with the environment. This can help you feel calm and peaceful, which can be hard to find in our busy and fast lives.
Affordability: One of the biggest advantages of yurts is their affordability. Yurts are cheaper compared to traditional houses or cabins. The cost of building and maintaining yurts is usually lower. This can be a game changer for many people who may not be able to afford a traditional home. With lower initial costs and potentially smaller mortgage payments, yurts offer a more accessible path to homeownership.
Minimalistic Lifestyle: Living in a yurt offers a unique experience that promotes a simpler, more sustainable lifestyle. Due to limited space, yurt-dwellers are encouraged to reduce consumption. They would focus on what is truly essential. This leads to a greater appreciation for the environment and resources we use daily. Yurt living also provides a sense of freedom. It detaches individuals from material possessions, allowing them to prioritize experiences and relationships over material goods.
Community and Social Interaction: Living in communities, such as yurts communities, can give individuals the chance to form strong bonds with people who share similar beliefs. These groups often have common values, which can help create a sense of belonging and meaning. Additionally, communal living can promote social interaction and collaboration, leading to the sharing of knowledge and skills.
Challenges of Living in a Yurt Full-Time
Just like a coin has two sides, living in a yurt must also have its shortcomings.
To like something is to fall in love with its shortcomings. If you still choose to live in a yurt after knowing its shortcomings, please embrace this kind of life.
Lack of Privacy: Although the open design of a yurt can be attractive, it might be difficult for people who want their own space and need separate rooms.
Insulation and Climate Control: The yurt’s thin wall structure made temperature control a challenge Maintaining a comfortable temperature inside a yurt is crucial for your well-being, especially if you live in an extreme climate. To keep your yurt comfortable, you need to use proper insulation. The type of insulation you use depends on the climate you live in.
In colder regions, use thicker insulation material to prevent heat loss.
In warmer regions, use lighter insulation materials like foam or fiberglass to keep your yurt cool.
Noise and Sound: One of the notable aspects of yurts is the lack of traditional walls. This makes it easier to design and move them, but it also means that they don’t block sound as well as regular buildings. That means you might hear more sounds from inside and outside the yurt, like wind, animals, or cars driving by.
Wildlife and Pests: When living in a yurt, Disturbance by wild animals and insects is inevitable. Due to the nature of the yurt’s construction, these creatures may be regular. Taking the necessary precautions to prevent them from entering the yurt. This may include proper storage of food, sealing any openings, and using natural repellents to deter insects. Additionally, Keeping bear spray is also essential in the yurt.
How Long Will a Yurt Last?
The yurt is not a permanent structure in terms of firmness, but with proper maintenance, it can be used for a lifetime. The solid wood and steel frame will last for a lifetime. The outer cloth cover usually lasts for 10-12 years.
What Amenities Do I Need to Live in a Yurt?
For those who plan to live in a yurt for a long time, it is not enough to just prepare a yurt. You still need to prepare a lot of necessary life settings in order to keep the normal life functioning. Listed below are some amenities for reference.
Electricity: Electricity is important for everyday activities. You need electrical outlets and lighting. To get electricity, you can use a generator, solar panels, or connect to the grid if available.
Water Supply and Plumbing: Having access to clean water is really important. To make sure you have it, you might need to set up a way to get it, like a well, water tank, or by connecting to a city water source. Having plumbing facilities, like a sink and bathroom, can also make things easier for you.
Waste Management: It’s essential to get rid of waste properly. This means setting up a sewage system, which may include using a septic tank, composting toilet, or other environmentally-friendly options.
Kitchen Facilities: If you like to cook, you might want a cooking area with a stove, refrigerator, and storage for kitchen stuff.
Bathroom Facilities: You will need a bathroom area that includes a toilet, sink, and shower or bathtub. You can choose to use regular bathroom items or more environmentally-friendly options.
Furniture and Storage: To make the yurt comfortable and usable, think about furniture like beds, chairs, tables, and storage options.
Internet and Communication: To get online and stay connected, you’ll need a dependable way to access the internet. This could mean using satellite, cellular networks, or other methods.
Security: Make sure your yurt is safe and secure by using locks, alarms, and good lighting.
Emergency Supplies: Get ready for emergencies by having essential supplies such as first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and emergency lighting.
Which States are Yurt Friendly?
Whether or not you can live in a yurt depends on the building codes and regulations where you live. In the United States, there is no state that has completely prohibited the building of yurts.
All 50 states allow yurts as residences in theory. However, the building codes and regulations vary among states; some are more yurt-friendly than others.
Here are a few of the most yurt-friendly states. If you live in one of these states, you’re in luck! Living in or building a yurt will be much easier for you.
Alaska
Alaska is one of the most yurt-friendly states in the United States.
Alaska’s vast wilderness and remote areas make yurts a popular choice for accommodation. Most areas of the state do not require a yurt license, you can choose any suitable location to build a yurt on the land.
California
California has a diverse landscape that is suitable for building yurts, including deserts and mountains. Because of this, California is one of the best states in the United States for building a yurt. However, the regulations for building yurts vary between each county and city in California, with some being very strict and others being very lenient.
Colorado
Colorado is a more open place for alternative housing like yurts. There are many off-grid communities in Colorado. You can build yurts in places zoned for one-family homes. But if you want to live in a yurt long term, you still need to make sure it meets the rules of the homeowners’ association (HOA) or some specific covenant.
Oregon
Oregon is a fantastic choice for those who are interested in yurt living, with its stunning natural beauty, progressive approach to sustainability, and welcoming community.
One of the main reasons why Oregon is a popular choice for yurt living is because it supports eco-friendly housing. Many communities and municipalities provide incentives and support for those who choose to live in yurts or other sustainable housing options.
Texas
Texas is a good state to live in a yurt because the rules are more relaxed than in other states. Yurt dwellers can enjoy the vast wilderness areas and friendly community.
The building codes and regulations in Texas are less strict than in other states, which makes it easier to build and live in a yurt. Unlike other states, Texas does not allow counties to enforce zoning regulations, which means yurt residents have more freedom and fewer restrictions..
Final Thoughts
Yurt living stirs the soul with promises of simplicity, nature, and freedom
As we’ve explored the legal aspects, advantages, and challenges of residing in a yurt year-round, it’s evident that challenges do exist while the freedom to live in a yurt is increasingly recognized.
For prospective yurt dwellers, the landscape varies across states – some states welcome yurts with open arms, while others raise zoning eyebrows—research local regulations to avoid land-use landmines.
If you’re a current or aspiring yurt resident, share your insights or questions in the comments.
