Quick answer
GitHub Free includes 500 MB of Actions artifact storage. Build logs and artifacts default to 90 days of retention, with configurable ranges that depend on repository visibility.
Current limits
| Constraint | Current value | Scope | Verified source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Artifact storagePlan-level included artifact storage shown in the Actions limits table. | 500 MB | GitHub Free / Free for organizations | GitHubAug 22, 2026 |
| Default artifact and log retentionPublic repositories can configure 1–90 days; private repositories can configure 1–400 days, subject to organization or enterprise limits. | 90 days | Repository setting | GitHubAug 22, 2026 |
Why does this limit matter?
Artifact storage is plan-level capacity, while a workflow's retention-days controls how long a particular artifact remains.
Caches follow different storage and eviction rules and should not be treated as durable artifacts.
What should you check?
- Check the plan's artifact storage allowance.
- Review repository Actions settings for the active retention period.
- Set retention-days only as long as the artifact is genuinely needed.
Important caveats
- Organization or enterprise policy can cap a repository's requested retention period.
- Deleting a workflow run also deletes its associated artifacts.
HyperObserve reports the documented platform constraint. Your application, SDK, gateway, provider, region, or account can impose a lower effective limit.
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