Accessory Structures in Redwood City, CA (2026)
4 verified accessory structures rules for Redwood City, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Redwood City allows ADUs in all residential zones. One-bedroom ADUs up to 850 sq ft; two+ bedrooms up to 1,000 sq ft. Detached height limit is 24 ft. 4-ft rear/side setbacks. ADUs cannot be STRs (except pre-2020 registrations).
Redwood City ADU Rules
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Small accessory structures (sheds) in Redwood City must comply with zoning setbacks and height limits. Sheds under 120 sq ft generally do not require a building permit but must still comply with zoning requirements.
Redwood City Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Garage conversions to ADUs are fully permitted in Redwood City per California ADU law. No replacement parking is required. Building permit is required. Conversion ADUs generally have no parking requirements.
Redwood City Garage Conversion Rules
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Redwood City Zoning Code Articles 5 (R-1 / RH), 6 (R-2), and 36 (Exterior Site Improvements) treat a carport as an accessory building. In R-1 and R-2 districts, a carport entrance or garage door must sit at least 20 feet behind the front property line, and the carport itself must meet the main building's interior side-yard setback and at least a 6-foot rear-yard setback under Section 36.5. Total accessory-building height is capped at 14 feet (with a 9-foot wall height adjacent to side and rear lines), and a building permit is required for any permanent posts and roof. Hillside parking may be located as close as 5 feet to the street property line at the Director's discretion.
Redwood City Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for San Mateo County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Redwood City city rules.
Accessory Structures in San Mateo County →