Richmond · Land use · Duplex
Where is a duplex allowed in Richmond?
In Richmond, a duplex is allowed in 2 base zones (RM1 and RM2), needs a permit in 2 (RL1 and RL2, all with a condition) and not allowed in 1 (Richmond use tables, read October 2026).
Key points
- Allowed: RM1 and RM2
- Needs a permit: RL1 and RL2
- Not allowed: RH
Find your lot's zone on the city zoning map, then read its row. Every status below was read from the Richmond Municipal Code use tables (read October 2026). Base zones only. General information, not legal advice — check with the city before you apply.
Zones where a duplex can go
Richmond's code calls this use “Duplex”. Each row links to the use table it comes from. A zone marked “see note” has a condition in the code, for example upper floors only or a larger lot.
| Zone | Status | Code |
|---|---|---|
| RM1 Medium Density Multi-family Residential | Allowed | § 15.04.201.020 |
| RM2 High Density Multi-Family Residential | Allowed | § 15.04.201.020 |
| RL1 | Needs an administrative use permit (lot 7,500 sq ft or larger) — see note Note L14: A duplex may be allowed with an administrative use permit on lots 7,500 square feet or larger. | § 15.04.201.020 |
| RL2 | Needs an administrative use permit (lot 5,000 sq ft or larger) — see note Note L13: A duplex may be allowed with an administrative use permit on lots 5,000 square feet or larger. | § 15.04.201.020 |
Zones where it is not allowed
RH.
What else applies
- State law: SB 9 (Gov. Code § 65852.21) allows two homes on most single-family lots with a ministerial permit, also where this table says no.
- Not covered here: Key Terms and Definitions (Article 15.04.104) are not in the packet: Community Assembly, Schools, Group Residential, Outdoor Agriculture, Residential Care Limited vs General; Section 15.04.610 use standards (emergency shelters, day care center, community garden, group residential) are not in the packet; LW (Live-Work) cells of the 'Schools' row are blank in S2; Richmond Bay Specific Plan area and the Interim Study (IS) overlay uses (S10-S12 overlays). Overlay zones and specific plans can also change the answer.
Other uses in Richmond
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a duplex in the RL1 zone in Richmond?
Only with an administrative use permit (lot 7,500 sq ft or larger). Richmond's use table lists it that way in RL1 (§ 15.04.201.020). The code adds a condition: “A duplex may be allowed with an administrative use permit on lots 7,500 square feet or larger.”
Can I have a duplex in the RH zone in Richmond?
No. Richmond's use table does not allow it in RH (§ 15.04.201.020).
Can I have a duplex in the RM1 zone in Richmond?
Yes. Richmond's use table lists it as allowed in RM1 (Medium Density Multi-family Residential) (§ 15.04.201.020).
General information, not legal advice.
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