ADU Rules in Richmond, VA (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Richmond, VA. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Whether ADUs are allowed in Richmond, VA has not been confirmed — see the official source before proceeding.
Whether Richmond, VA permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) has not been confirmed from an official source. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. Contact the local building department at (804) 646-6304 to verify current ADU rules before proceeding, as regulations may have changed since this data was last reviewed.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Richmond: Detached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source (max height: varies — see official source). Attached ADU: size varies by zoning — see official source.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | See official source | See official source |
| Attached ADU | See official source | See official source |
Permit Fees
ADU Permit Fees in Richmond: Plan check fee: Varies. Building permit fee: Varies. Impact fees: None. School fees: None or N/A. Total estimated permit cost: Varies.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plan Check | $200–$800 |
| Building Permit | Based on construction value — typically $800–$3,000 |
| Impact Fees | None |
| School Fees | None |
| Total Estimate | See official source |
Permit Timeline
Richmond ADU Permit Timeline: Permit timeline has not been confirmed — contact the department for current processing times. Apply through the local building department online permit portal. Phone: (804) 646-6304.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Richmond: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: no minimum. Rear setback: no minimum.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: Parking requirements have not been confirmed — see official source.
Restrictions & Requirements
- Owner-occupancy required — owner must reside in primary or accessory unit
- Only one accessory apartment per single-family lot
- Cannot be located in required front yard setback
- Must maintain minimum lot coverage limits per zone
- Cannot be separately conveyed from primary dwelling
- Certificate of occupancy required before rental
How Many ADUs Are Allowed?
Number of ADUs Allowed in Richmond: Single-family lots: not confirmed — see official source. Multifamily properties: not confirmed — see official source.
- Single-Family Lots
- 1
- Multifamily Properties
- By right in R-6 through R-8 and multifamily zones per development standards
Statewide Preemption
ADU Preemption
We could not confirm a statewide ADU preemption statute for Virginia.
View Virginia preemption detailsFrequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU in Richmond?
Yes. Richmond, VA allows accessory dwelling units. On a single-family lot you can build 1.
How big can an ADU be in Richmond?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Richmond is 1,000 square feet.
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Richmond?
The typical ADU permit timeline in Richmond is Richmond DPR building permit: typically 4-8 weeks for plan review. Online permit portal available. Construction 3-9 months.. Total estimated permit fees are $1,500–$5,000 total permit fees.
Do I need extra parking for an ADU in Richmond?
Richmond parking rules for ADUs: 1 off-street parking space required per accessory apartment unit. Waiver available for properties near GRTC transit routes with frequent service.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Richmond?
Owner-occupancy requirement in Richmond: Owner-occupancy of either the primary or accessory unit required per Richmond City Code. Owner must reside on the property.
Source: Richmond City Code Chapter 30 — Zoning; Virginia Code Section 15.2-2291. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source