Sacramento Building Permits: Everything You Need to Know

Are you planning to start construction in Sacramento, California? If so, it’s important to get the right permit for your project. Permits aren’t always easy to obtain, and they can take weeks to get approved even with all your information submitted correctly. 

Whether you're a developer, contractor, or builder, you need to understand what it takes to get the right building permit. This guide will walk you through how to obtain a Sacramento building permit, navigate the requirements, and get your project started without any issues.

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How to obtain a Sacramento building permit

A building permit is basically written approval from the city that your project is fully planned out and meets all the appropriate building codes. You’ll need to submit paperwork to the Sacramento Community Development Department and indicate that your project has undergone review from professional contractors. After that, the City will need time to review documents, ask questions, and grant approval.

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What do you need a permit for in Sacramento?

Most construction projects in Sacramento require a building permit, though smaller projects may not. By reviewing projects to ensure they meet code, the City helps to ensure that construction is safe and functional for current and future residents. 

Common projects that might require a permit can include:

• New building construction
• Room additions
• Garage conversions
• Kitchen or bathroom remodels
• Roof replacements
• Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work 
• Deck or patio construction
• Fence installation (over 7 feet tall)
• Swimming pool installation

What doesn't require a Sacramento building permit?

Not all projects need a permit. Some residential projects don’t require a permit before work can get started. 

Here are some examples of work that may not require a permit:

• Painting (interior or exterior)
• Installing new flooring
• Replacing kitchen cabinets (without changing plumbing or electrical)
• Minor repairs and maintenance
• Building a fence under 7 feet tall
• Installing new countertops
• Replacing a toilet or sink (without moving plumbing)

Unless you’re absolutely sure your project doesn’t need a permit, get in touch with the BPI for information. They are available to help and can answer most common questions.

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How long does it take to get a construction permit in Sacramento?

Permit approval timelines vary depending on the size and scope of each project. Large commercial projects take longer to approve than simple residential projects, so expect to add a few days or weeks to your project timeline.

Along with this list from the City of Sacramento’s website, here's a general idea of what to expect:

• Simple projects (like replacing a water heater): 1-5 business days
• Residential remodels or additions: 1-2 weeks
• New home construction: 2-4 weeks
• Large commercial projects: 4-6 weeks or more

Keep in mind, approval times can be shorter or longer depending on the department’s current workload. Missing information will also cause delays, so double check for completeness before submitting your application.

Expedited plan review

For an additional fee, you can request to have the City of Sacramento expedite your permit review. This is especially helpful for large projects where longer timelines can result in higher costs. 

Use this form to request expedited plan review, then submit it during business hours to EZPermit@cityofsacramento.org to get started.

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Sacramento building permit requirements

Building permits exist to keep buildings safe and up to code. In order to successfully obtain a Sacramento building permit, you’ll need to furnish proof that your project falls within the City’s requirements. 

This can include documents such as building plans (for construction projects), contractor information, and possible approval from environmental and zoning inspectors. 

Your Sacramento building permit form may require:

• Project plans of what you're building
• Site plans showing where you plan to build on the property
• Structural calculations that account for changes in a building's structure
• Title 24 energy calculations for projects that affect energy use
• Contractor's license information
• Proof of property ownership

You can find more detailed information about Sacramento’s plan preparation requirements here. Exact requirements can change project to project, and you may need more detailed plans or extra forms.

How much does a building permit cost in Sacramento?

Unfortunately, there’s no clear list with exact permit pricing details. Each permit varies in cost depending on the size and scope of the project, though the City of Sacramento provides this list as a starting point.

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Applying for your permit in Sacramento

The first step to getting your permit is locating the right forms to fill out. 

For minor permits that can be reviewed online, you will need to create an account on Sacramento’s Citizen Portal. Here, you can find the permit applications you need, as well as obtain assistance from staff. 

You can also visit the permitting department in person for help tailored exactly to your needs. The Public Counter where you’ll find assistance is located at 300 Richards Boulevard, 3rd Floor in Sacramento, CA 95811.

Contacting the permitting department

Appointments with the Public Counter are available Tuesday - Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. You can get started scheduling your appointment by clicking here. 

You can also reach the permit services staff by phone at (916) 808-5318.

How do I keep track of my building permit status?

Sacramento’s permitting services are accessible through this online portal. If you have your permit number handy, you can use this portal to track progress as well as respond to any requests for more information.

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How PermitFlow simplifies permitting

As you can see, it’s not always the easiest thing to figure out which information the City of Sacramento requires before approving a permit. That’s why many contractors use PermitFlow—a software-based permitting app designed to streamline the permit process and ease the headache that comes with it.

PermitFlow’s team of experienced permitting professionals can answer your questions and help you navigate the process effortlessly.. 

With PermitFlow, you benefit from:

• Cloud-based document storage: Stop worrying about where you left your paperwork or how to get it to the City’s permitting department. PermitFlow’s cloud-based storage makes it easy to instantly provide information and answers so your permit approval stays on track. 
• Experienced permitting pros: PermitFlow works with construction professionals from around the country who understand the ins and outs of the process. No matter how complex your project may be or how many jurisdictions it touches, you’ll have a team on your side who can confidently handle the challenges.
• Time savings: You don’t have to keep refreshing your email to check if the permitting department needs more information. PermitFlow can handle these communications on your behalf, letting you focus on what you do best: building. 

Get started with PermitFlow

Ready to get started? Contact the team at PermitFlow today to learn how to make permitting easier. 

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