ADU Rules: El Cerrito vs Richmond
How do adu rules rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Richmond, CA?
El Cerrito and Richmond have similar restriction levels.
El Cerrito, CA
Contra Costa County
Contra Costa County allows one ADU and one JADU on any residential lot by ministerial permit, consistent with AB 68/AB 881 and Gov. Code 65852.2. Detached ADUs up to 800 sq ft with 4-foot setbacks are permitted as of right, with 60-day review, no impact fees under 750 sq ft, and no replacement parking required near transit.
View full El Cerrito rules →Richmond, CA
Contra Costa County
Richmond allows ADUs in all residential zones under RMC §15.04.610.020 and CA Gov Code §65852.2. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft, attached up to 50% of primary or 1,200 sq ft. JADUs up to 500 sq ft. Height limit 16 ft for detached. Ministerial approval (no public hearing). Pre-approved plans available free of charge.
View full Richmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Units allowed | 1 ADU + 1 JADU per lot | - |
| Max detached ADU size | 800 sq ft ministerial; up to 1,200 sq ft | - |
| Setbacks | 4 ft side/rear (state minimum) | - |
| Processing time | 60 days ministerial | - |
| Short-term rental | Prohibited for ADUs (<30 days) | - |
| Max Size (Detached) | - | 1,200 sq ft |
| JADU | - | Up to 500 sq ft |
| Height | - | 16 ft (detached) |
| Pre-Approved Plans | - | Available free from city |
| Permit Time | - | 6-8 weeks typical |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cerrito FAQ
Do I need to provide a parking space for my new ADU?
No, if your property is within half a mile of public transit, in a historic district, or the ADU is a conversion of an existing garage. Otherwise one space is required, which can be in a driveway tandem.
Can I rent my ADU on Airbnb?
No. State law allows counties to prohibit ADU rentals under 30 days, and Contra Costa prohibits short-term rentals of ADUs.
Richmond FAQ
Can I build an ADU on my property in Richmond?
Richmond allows ADUs in all residential zones under RMC §15.04.610.020 and CA Gov Code §65852.2. Detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft, attached up to 50% of primary or 1,200 sq ft. JADUs up to 500 sq ft. Height limit 16 ft for detached. Ministerial approval (no public hearing). Pre-approved plans...
What are the size limits for an accessory dwelling unit in Richmond?
Max Size (Detached): 1,200 sq ft. JADU: Up to 500 sq ft. Height: 16 ft (detached). Pre-Approved Plans: Available free from city.
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