Accessory Structures in Richmond, CA (2026)
3 verified accessory structures rules for Richmond, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Richmond permits ADUs and JADUs ministerially in all residential zones, with no owner-occupancy requirement for the ADU. Studios/1-bedroom units may be up to 850 sq ft and 2+ bedroom units up to 1,000 sq ft; detached ADUs are limited to 16 feet (18 feet near transit).
Richmond ADU rules: ministerial, up to 1,000 sq ft, no owner-occupancy
Few RestrictionsCity of Richmond Community Development Dept., Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Info Sheet (eff. Jan. 1, 2025), implementing RMC § 15.04.610.020
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) are residential dwellings with complete independent living facilities. ADUs may be attached or detached from primary construction, or it may be converted from existing space within a primary residence or a detached structure. No owner occupancy is required. Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU) are residential dwellings that are converted from existing space con...
Shed Rules
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.
Sheds in Richmond: ≤120 sq ft permit-exempt; zoning still applies
Few RestrictionsCalifornia Building Code 2025 § 105.2, as adopted by City of Richmond (Work Exempt from Permits handout)
[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,...
Garage Conversions
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.
Garage conversions in Richmond: ADU pathway allows full conversion
Few RestrictionsCity of Richmond Community Development Dept., Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Info Sheet (eff. Jan. 1, 2025), implementing RMC § 15.04.610.020 and Cal. Gov. Code § 66323
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 Co...
Looking for Contra Costa County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Richmond city rules.
Accessory Structures in Contra Costa County →