Accessory Structures in Chesterfield County, VA (2026)

3 rules for unincorporated Chesterfield County, Virginia.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Chesterfield County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

ADU Rules

Chesterfield does not allow a separate accessory dwelling by right. Using an accessory building as a dwelling generally requires a Conditional Use Permit approved by the Board of Supervisors. Accessory buildings themselves may not exceed the primary dwelling's square footage. Virginia has no statewide by-right ADU mandate.

Accessory Dwelling Units Require a Conditional Use Permit

Some Restrictions

Chesterfield County Zoning Ordinance Sec. 19.1-304.A.1

In R and MH-2 Districts, the gross square footage of all accessory buildings on a lot shall not exceed the gross square footage of the primary dwelling, excluding any basement.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Shed & Carport Rules

Carports need a building permit in Chesterfield regardless of size. A carport is a structure open on at least two sides for covering vehicles; enclose it further and it becomes a garage. Carports must meet accessory-building setbacks that vary by zoning district.

Carports Require a Permit and Zoning Setbacks

Some Restrictions

Chesterfield County Building Inspection, Requirements for Sheds, Carports and Garages

A carport is a structure open on at least two sides used generally for covering vehicles. It may be attached to the house or be free standing. If the structure does not open on at least two sides, it shall be considered a garage.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Garage Conversions

Enclosing a carport or converting a garage into living space requires building permits and must meet the Virginia building code and zoning. A structure open on fewer than two sides is treated as a garage. Creating a separate dwelling needs a Conditional Use Permit.

Converting or Enclosing a Garage Needs Permits

Some Restrictions

Chesterfield County Building Inspection, Requirements for Sheds, Carports and Garages

A carport is a structure open on at least two sides used generally for covering vehicles ... If the structure does not open on at least two sides, it shall be considered a garage and will have to comply with all code requirements for garages.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

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