ADU Preapproved Plans 

To comply with Assembly Bill No. 1332 (AB 1332), specifically California Government Code section 65852.27(4)(A)(i), which requires cities to establish a program for preapproving ADU master plans, and to help City of Richmond property owners and developers access preapproved ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) plans to use for their new detached ADU building construction projects.

What is a preapproved plan?

A preapproved plan has been pre-reviewed by the City of Richmond's Planning and Building Divisions for compliance with the building code and other regulations. Choosing one of these plans gives you a head start on the process compared to creating a fully custom design. Applicants must still hire a general contractor or civil engineer to prepare site plans. See application process below for more information.

The preapproved plans are for detached units only. Listed on this page are all the preapproved ADU plans that may be constructed within the City of Richmond. These plans include contact information for the plan designer, as required by AB 1332.

What are the Benefits to Using a Preapproved Plan?

Selecting a preapproved plan will save you time and money! When you submit your application, it will be redirected to the Building Division, bypassing the typical planning process and saving you time. Using the preapproved plans will also save you thousands of dollars typically associated with designing, developing architectural plans, preparing reports, and permitting. 

Are modification to ADU preapproved plans allowed?

The pre-approved ADU design cannot be revised and must be permitted as designed. The ADU's may be oriented in any direction and floor plans may be mirrored (flipped). If you would like to make changes to the design, layout, floor plan, etc., you must submit an additional written statement detailing the requested changes. Not all proposed changes will be approved, pending compliance with state law.

How can I Submit an Application? 

The preapproved plans include:

  • Architectural plans 
  • Structural plans & details
  • Plumbing, mechanical, and electrical plans
  • Building energy analysis (Title 24 Report) 

Homeowner will still need to provide the following:

  • Cover sheet with project location
  • Site specific plan and foundation design

To submit your application, refer to our new permitting portal IMS. Select the "Permit" tile to begin the process. 

How to Become a Preapproved Design Professional

Richmond is currently accepting applications from qualifying design professionals to have their plans for detached ADUs preapproved for use throughout the City. Having your ADU plans preapproved is a great way to ensure that your future clients can move through the permitting process quickly and smoothly. All preapproved ADU plans will be featured on this webpage to help connect you with Richmond homeowners who are interested in adding a detached ADU to their property. You will still retain your copyright to the preapproved design so that any homeowner who wishes to use the design must contract with you to do so.

You may submit your plans for detached ADUs through the city permitting portal, IMS. Indicate in your application your request for review and consideration of your plans to be included in the City ADU preapproved plans list. 

Once your ADU plan is preapproved by the City it will be posted for homeowners to review on our website. The preapproval will remain valid until the City adopts new building or zoning codes that apply to your ADU plan. The City will notify you when such changes take place and let you know how updated plans can be submitted.

What Documents are Needed to Submit my ADU plan for consideration?

The items below are required for this project type. Please note additional items may be requested depending on the project scope. 

  • Construction Documents. Plans shall be formatted on standard architectural sheets: 18” x 24” or 24” x 36”. All sheets in the set shall be the same size. Plan set must include:
    • Architectural Plans (Floor Plans, Elevations, Sections, Details)
    • Structural Plans and Details (Floor Framing Plan, Roof Framing Plan/Details, Truss Submittal (if applicable)
    • Plumbing, Mechanical and Electrical Plans
    • Title 24 Energy Report  
  • Structural Calculation
  • Architect/Designer Release: (Submit only if you will allow another architect/designer to prepare site-specific plans using this plan set.)

Can I Request to Remove My Preapproved Plan from the City Website?

If you would like a pre-approved ADU plan removed from this list and are the applicant for the pre-approved ADU plan, please contact the Planning Division, and it will be removed from the City’s website within 30 days of your request.