Richmond, CA Accessory Structures: Shed & Carport Rules (2026)
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.
Key Facts
- Permit Exemption Threshold
- ≤120 sq ft, one-story, detached
- Code
- California Building Code 2025 § 105.2 (item 1)
- Zoning Still Applies
- Yes: setbacks per base district
- Planning Contact
- (510) 620-6706
- Fence Permit
- Required if over 7 ft high
- Retaining Wall Permit
- Required if over 4 ft from footing to top
Summary
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.
[A] 105.2 Work Exempt From Permit
Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:
Building:
1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided that the floor area does not exceed than 120 square feet (11.15 m²). It is permissible that these structures still be regulated by Section 710A, despite exemption from permit.
2. Fences, other than swimming pool barriers, not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high.
4. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II or IIIA liquids.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
020 references Title 24). ' 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. 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. ' Setback requirements vary by zoning district. Richmond's Planning Department (510-620-6706) confirms setbacks must be verified for each property's zone. 2.
Violations & Fines
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a building permit for a small shed in Richmond?
What size shed needs a permit in Richmond?
Where can I put a shed on my property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Richmond
How Richmond compares: Shed Permit Requirements by City·California rules heatmap·Compare Richmond to another location·View the California accessory structures overview
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Shed & Carport Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Contra Costa County handle shed & carport rules.