Shed permit rules in Richmond, CA — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Under the California Building Code 2025 (adopted by Richmond), one-story detached tool and storage sheds 120 square feet or less are exempt from building permits. Zoning setbacks and accessory-structure rules under the Richmond Zoning Ordinance still apply regardless of permit exemption.
Richmond enforces the 2025 California Building Code as its building code (RMC Chapter 15.04.020 references Title 24). Per California Building Code 2025 [A] 105.2, Work Exempt From Permit, item 1: 'One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided that the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet (11.15 m²).' This permit exemption is acknowledged in Richmond's official 'Work Exempt from Permits' handout. Important: building-permit exemption does NOT exempt the shed from zoning rules. Under Richmond Zoning Ordinance § 15.04.110.030 (and parallel provisions in all single-family and multifamily residential districts), accessory uses and buildings 'shall be limited to those uses that are clearly incidental to the primary use of the property, and which are sited within the property boundaries of the primary use, such as garages, swimming pools and gazebos. Refer to Section 15.04.880 for details.' Setback requirements vary by zoning district. Richmond's Planning Department (510-620-6706) confirms setbacks must be verified for each property's zone. Fences over 7 feet high and retaining walls over 4 feet high also require permits per CBC 105.2.
Sheds that exceed 120 sq ft or violate setbacks are subject to enforcement under RMC § 15.04.950 and § 15.04.990 (revocation/modification). Construction without required permits is a code violation; the City may order removal or retroactive permitting. Repeat violations may be charged as misdemeanors under RMC § 1.04.100.
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