Richmond, CA Building Setbacks & Zoning: Lot Coverage Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Definition
- Footprint / net lot area
- Counted
- Garages, carports, covered patios
- Excluded
- Uncovered decks, low landings
- Code section
- RMC 15.04.103.110
Summary
Richmond measures lot coverage as the ratio of the combined footprint of all structures, including garages, carports, covered patios, and roofed porches, to the net lot area, while excluding uncovered decks, patio slabs, and low landings.
Lot coverage is the ratio of the total footprint area of all structures on a lot to the net lot area, typically expressed as a percentage. The footprints of all principal and accessory structures, including garages, carports, covered patios, and roofed porches, shall be summed in order to calculate lot coverage. The following structures shall be excluded from the calculation: Unenclosed and unroofed decks, uncovered patio slabs, porches, landings, balconies, and stairways less than 18 inches in height...
Full Breakdown
Richmond Municipal Code section 15.04.103.110 defines lot coverage as the ratio of the total footprint area of all structures on a lot to the net lot area, expressed as a percentage. The footprints of all principal and accessory structures, including garages, carports, covered patios, and roofed porches, are summed. Excluded are unenclosed, unroofed decks, uncovered patio slabs, porches, landings, balconies, and stairways less than 18 inches high at the deck surface and less than six feet above grade.
Violations & Fines
Development exceeding the district's maximum lot coverage as calculated under RMC 15.04.103.110 is a zoning violation enforced by the Planning Division.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is lot coverage measured in Richmond?
Do uncovered decks count?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Richmond
California rules heatmap·Compare Richmond to another location·View the California building setbacks & zoning overview
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Lot Coverage Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Contra Costa County handle lot coverage limits.