ADU Rules in Richmond, VA (2026)
ADU rules, permit requirements, size limits, and fees for Richmond, VA. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Yes, ADUs are allowed in Richmond, VA.
Richmond, VA permits accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on residential properties. ADUs — also called granny flats, in-law units, backyard cottages, or secondary suites — are secondary housing units on a single-family or multifamily lot. State and local law actively preempts local restrictions, making ADU approval a streamlined ministerial process. In Richmond, the Richmond Department of Planning and Development Review handles ADU permit applications. Below you will find the current size limits, setbacks, fees, and timeline for building an ADU in Richmond.
ADU Size Limits
ADU Size Limits in Richmond: Detached ADU: up to 1000 sq ft (max height: 25 feet). Attached ADU: 50% of primary dwelling floor area. Richmond allows accessory apartments up to 1,000 sqft detached or 50% of primary dwelling floor area for attached units. Richmond does not use California JADU terminology — jadu is null.
| Type | Max Size | Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| Detached ADU | 1000 sq ft | 25 feet |
| Attached ADU | 50% of primary dwelling floor area | Per zone height limit |
Permit Fees
ADU Permit Fees in Richmond: Plan check fee: $200–$800. Building permit fee: Based on construction value — typically $800–$3,000. Impact fees: None. School fees: None or N/A. Total estimated permit cost: $1,500–$5,000 total permit fees. Richmond does not charge significant impact fees for ADU construction. Fees based on project valuation. Richmond DPR fee schedule available at rva.gov.
| 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 | $1,500–$5,000 total permit fees |
Permit Timeline
Richmond ADU Permit Timeline: Richmond DPR building permit: typically 4-8 weeks for plan review. Online permit portal available. Construction 3-9 months. Apply through the Richmond Department of Planning and Development Review online permit portal. Phone: (804) 646-6340.
Setback Requirements
ADU Setback Requirements in Richmond: Front setback: follows zone standard. Side setback: 3 feet. Rear setback: 5 feet. Richmond accessory apartment minimum setbacks: 5 ft rear, 3 ft side. Setbacks from primary structure also apply. City Code Chapter 30.
Parking Requirements
Parking Requirements: 1 off-street parking space required per accessory apartment unit. Waiver available for properties near GRTC transit routes with frequent service.
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: 1. Multifamily properties: By right in R-6 through R-8 and multifamily zones per development standards. Richmond allows one accessory apartment per single-family lot in compliance with Virginia Code Section 15.2-2291.
Single-Family Lots
1
Multifamily Properties
By right in R-6 through R-8 and multifamily zones per development standards
State Law & Preemption
State Preemption: Virginia Code Section 15.2-2291 requires Richmond to allow accessory apartments in single-family residential zones. As an independent city, Richmond must comply with this statewide mandate. Richmond's local ordinance implements the state requirement.
Historic District Considerations
Historic District Requirements: Richmond has 18 historic districts where additional design review may be required for ADU construction. Design review approval is required before obtaining a building permit for properties in historic overlay zones. Richmond has an exceptional concentration of historic districts reflecting its antebellum, Civil War, and early 20th century history. Major districts include The Fan, Church Hill, Jackson Ward, Oregon Hill, Carver, Monroe Ward, and Shockoe Slip. Richmond's Historic Preservation Office (HPO) reviews certificates of appropriateness for exterior changes to contributing structures. Richmond is home to Monument Avenue, Canal Walk, and the American Civil War Museum — all adding preservation complexity. Look up historic district boundaries at: https://www.rva.gov/planning-development-review/historic-preservation
Frequently 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?
No, Richmond does not require additional parking for ADUs.
Do I have to live on-site to have an ADU in Richmond?
No, owner-occupancy is not required for ADUs in Richmond.
Source: Richmond City Code Chapter 30 — Zoning; Virginia Code Section 15.2-2291. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source