Richmond, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)
Garage conversion rules in Richmond, CA, sometimes called garage-to-ADU or accessory living unit conversions, govern permits, ceiling height, egress, and parking replacement.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- RMC § 15.04.610.020; Gov. Code § 66323
- Min Floor Area (Conversion)
- 150 sq ft
- Max Floor Area (Conversion)
- 850 sq ft (studio/1bd); 1,000 sq ft (2+ bd)
- Setbacks
- Same as existing structure
- Parking Replacement
- Not required when demolished/converted
- Parking for new ADU
- 0 spaces
- JADU in Attached Garage
- Allowed (Gov. Code § 66333(d))
- Review
- Ministerial, 60 days
Summary
Richmond permits conversion of an existing garage into an ADU as a ministerial process under RMC § 15.04.610.020 and California ADU Law. JADUs may be created within attached garages because state law treats them as part of the single-family residence. Demolished parking need not be replaced.
When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished or converted in conjunction with the construction of an accessory dwelling unit, the parking spaces need not be replaced.
[ADUs] may be converted from existing space within a primary residence or a detached structure. No owner occupancy is required.
Min Floor Area (sq. ft.): 150 (Conversion). Max Floor Area: 850 (Studio/1bd Conversion); 1,000 (2bd+ Conversion).
Minimum side setback (ft) Conversion: Same as existing structure. Minimum rear setback (ft) Conversion: Same as existing structure.
Parking Conversion: 0.
No additional parking shall be required if the accessory unit is located:
1) Within one-half mile walking distance of public transit;
2) In an architecturally and historically significant historic district;
3) In part of a proposed or existing primary residence or an accessory structure;
4) In an area requiring on-street parking permits but they are not offered to the occupant of the second unit; or
5) Within one block of a car-share pick up/drop-off location.
Full Breakdown
020 and California Government Code §§ 66313-66323. The Richmond ADU Info Sheet (effective January 1, 2025) confirms that ADUs 'may be converted from existing space within a primary residence or a detached structure,' which expressly includes garages. ' For a converted (interior) ADU, the minimum floor area is 150 sq ft and maximum is 850 sq ft (studio/1bd) or 1,000 sq ft (2+ bd); setbacks are 'same as existing structure,' and 0 parking spaces are required. The California Department of Housing and Community Development's October 21, 2024 review of Richmond's ADU ordinance specifically requires the City to comply with Gov.
Code § 66333(d), which states that 'enclosed uses within the residence, such as attached garages, are considered a part of the proposed or existing single-family residence,' meaning JADUs may be created within attached garages. The HCD letter required Richmond to amend ordinance language to clarify this. A conversion requires a building permit and ministerial planning review within 60 days (30 days with City pre-approved plans). Plans must comply with the California Building Code 2025 for habitable space (egress windows, smoke detectors, insulation, mechanical, electrical).
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted garage-to-living-space conversions are a code violation and create unsafe occupancy. Enforcement under RMC § 15.04.950 includes orders to vacate, fines, and required restoration or retroactive permitting. The City may also impose a lien on the property under RMC Chapters 1.04 and 2.62. Unpermitted conversions create resale and insurance problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert my garage into an ADU in Richmond?
If I convert my garage, do I have to add new parking?
Can I make my attached garage into a Junior ADU (JADU)?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Richmond
California rules heatmap·Compare Richmond to another location·View the California accessory structures overview
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Garage Conversions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Contra Costa County handle garage conversions.