If you’re planning a remodel, addition, or ADU, one of the first questions you’ll run into is: “How do I get a building permit in Sacramento?” The process can feel overwhelming if you’ve never done it before. Every city and county has its own rules, forms, and steps. At Sparrow Design & Plans, we help homeowners and contractors navigate this process every day — creating the plans, coordinating with engineers, and submitting everything needed for approval.Why You Need a Building PermitBuilding permits exist to make sure construction is safe and code-compliant. Whether you’re adding a new bedroom, converting your garage to an ADU, or remodeling your kitchen, the city wants to see drawings that show how the work will meet current codes. Without a permit, you risk fines, stop-work orders, or problems when you go to sell your home.

Steps to Getting a Building Permit in Sacramento1. Determine What Type of Permit You Need. Sacramento’s building department issues permits for additions, remodels, ADUs, new homes, and more. Some small projects (like simple repairs) may not need permits, but most construction work does.2. Prepare Plans & Documents This is where most people run into trouble. The city won’t accept a napkin sketch — they want accurate, detailed plans that meet California Residential Code (CRC), Title-24 energy standards, and local zoning rules. That’s what our drafting team prepares: floor plans, elevations, sections, details, and coordination with engineers when needed.3. Submit to the City or County Each jurisdiction (City of Sacramento, Sacramento County, Folsom, Roseville, Elk Grove, etc.) has its own permit portal or counter. We handle the upload process and make sure the right forms are filled out.4. Plan Check & Corrections Once submitted, a plan checker reviews your project. They may issue comments or request revisions. We respond quickly to those corrections until the plans are approved.5. Get Approval & Start BuildingOnce approved, you’ll receive your permit, and construction can officially begin.How Sparrow Design & Plans Helps Most homeowners search for an “architect near me” or “drafter near me” when they realize they need permit drawings. We take care of the entire process from start to finish: Creating permit-ready drawings for ADUs, remodels, additions, and custom homes Coordinating with licensed structural engineers and Title-24 consultants Submitting your plans directly to the city or county Handling plan check corrections until your project is approved Service AreasWe regularly work with building departments across the Greater Sacramento area, including: Sacramento • Citrus Heights • Fair Oaks • Carmichael • Folsom • Roseville • Rocklin • Elk Grove • Rancho Cordova • Granite Bay • Natomas • West Sacramento • Loomis • Lincoln • Auburn FAQ About Building Permits How long does it take to get a building permit in Sacramento?
Simple remodels or ADUs may be approved in a few weeks. Larger additions or custom homes can take longer, depending on plan check timelines. Can I draw my own plans?
In theory, yes — but most cities require professional-quality drawings with details that homeowners don’t usually know how to prepare. That’s why most people hire a drafter or designer.

‍Do I need an architect?
Not always. Many residential projects can be completed with a skilled architectural drafter and coordinated engineers. We’ll tell you up front if your project requires a licensed architect.

‍What happens if I skip permits?
You could face fines, be forced to tear out work, or run into problems when refinancing or selling your home. Permits are always worth the effort.Get Help With Your Building PermitIf you’re searching for an architect near me or architectural drafter near me because you need help getting a permit, Sparrow Design & Plans can guide you through the entire process. From the first sketch to the final approval, we make permitting simple and stress-free.📍 Sparrow Design & Plans
8421 Auburn Blvd #200, Citrus Heights, CA 95610📞 Call/Text: 916.627.6442
📧 Email: tim@sparrowdp.com
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