The permit counters are the starting point in the building permit process, whether you are doing a simple project at home or building a new structure. View the Listing of simple permits that can be obtained online.
Do I Need A Permit?
Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.
This website is intended to be used as a general guide. When determining whether or not a building permit is required, refer to Section 105 of the California Building Code (CBC) and/or the California Residential Code (CRC) or consult directly with the Sacramento County Division of Building Permits and Inspections.
Projects that require a permit. Typical projects include, but not limited to:
Additions / Alterations |
Outdoor Kitchens |
Siding/Stucco |
Ceiling fans / Lights |
New homes and buildings |
Signs |
Change of Use or Occupancy to a Building or Specific Tenant Space |
Patio Covers |
Skylights |
Decks* |
Photovoltaic (solar) systems |
Solar for swimming pools |
Electrical panels, Circuits |
Racking |
Swimming pools and spas |
Fences (over 7 feet in height) |
Reroofing |
Tenant Improvements |
Fireplace and fireplace inserts |
Retaining walls* |
Termite / Dryrot Repairs* |
Garage conversions |
Room additions |
Water Heaters |
Gas Lines |
Sewer service New or Replacement |
Water Service |
Heating and cooling systems |
Sheds* |
Whole House Fans |
Kitchen and Bathroom remodels |
Shower or tub enclosure replacements |
Window replacements (Cut in or Retrofit) |
*Refer to the California
Building Code (CBC) and/or California Residential Code (CRC) 105.2 for work
that is exempt from permit.
Projects that do not require a permit. Typical projects include, but not limited to:
- One story detached accessory buildings used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, etc., providing the floor area does not exceed 120 square feet, less than 12" overhangs, less than 9' tall in total height, and not placed in a Utility easement.
- Fences seven feet or less in total height
- Retaining walls less than 2' in height (when constructed out of wood) less than 36" in height (when constructed out of masonry) Wall height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of wall.
- Painting, papering, flooring, and similar finish work.
- Repair of Toilets and sink faucets
- Landscape irrigation
- Appliance Replacement (plug in)
For a complete listing of work that does not
require a permit please refer to section 105.2 of the California Building Code
and/ or the California Residential Code.
Who can apply for a permit ?
We only issue permits to Home Owners, Contractors or authorized agents for them. An authorization letter will need to be signed and provided when applying for an Owner or Contractor.
Simple Miscellaneous Permits
If there are no requirements for plan review, we will generally be able to issue the permit in one visit or you can apply online.
Examples of a simple miscellaneous permit include residential projects such as reroofing, the replacement of water heaters, electric service panels, heaters and air conditioners, Retro-fit window replacement and other minor projects.
View the Listing of permits that can be obtained online.
Permits Requiring Plan Review
For permits requiring plan review, we will begin your permit process, review your application and route your package to plan review. Once the plans are approved for permit by all departments we will issue the permit and start the field inspection process.
