How to Get Permit-Ready Construction Plans in Sacramento

February 21, 2019

What Does Permit-Ready Actually Mean?

If you're planning a remodel, ADU, garage conversion, or new home in Sacramento, the first step is getting permit-ready construction plans. The City of Sacramento requires a complete set of drawings before they'll even review your application — and missing one sheet can delay your project by weeks.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what Sacramento wants to see in your plans, and how to get your project approved faster.

Permit-ready plans are more than just a sketch or concept — they’re detailed construction documents that meet California Building Code, local zoning rules, and city submission standards.

In Sacramento, a complete plan set usually includes:

  • Site Plan (with setbacks, lot size, and location of structures)
  • Floor Plans (existing + proposed)
  • Roof Plan
  • Exterior Elevations
  • Electrical Plan
  • Title 24 Energy Calculations (required for most projects)
  • Structural Plans (if required, coordinated with engineer)

These plans must be clearly labeled, drawn to scale, and formatted according to the City of Sacramento’s submittal checklist.

Here’s when you absolutely need permit-ready plans in Sacramento:

  • Building an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)
  • Converting a garage to living space
  • Adding square footage (bedrooms, bathrooms, second story)
  • Major interior remodels involving walls or windows
  • Building a new custom home
  • Fire restoration or structural repairs

Even smaller jobs may require plans if they affect structural or safety components.

Tips to Get Your Plans Approved Faster

  • Work with a drafter who knows local code
    (Sparrow Design & Plans specializes in Sacramento)
  • Submit a complete set — missing sheets = auto-rejection
  • Coordinate Title 24 & engineering before you submit
  • Make sure your drawings are to scale and clean — city reviewers hate messy plans
  • Know your zoning restrictions: setbacks, lot coverage, etc.

Serving Sacramento & Beyond

We work with homeowners, contractors, and investors across:

  • Sacramento
  • Citrus Heights
  • Elk Grove
  • Rancho Cordova
  • North Highlands
  • Rosemont
    …and surrounding areas.

Ready to Start?

If you need permit-ready plans for a project in Sacramento, we can help.
We’ll walk you through the steps, prepare your drawings, and help you get approval as fast as possible.

Why Choose Us
Fast Turnarounds — We know delays cost money. That’s why we prioritize quick, accurate plan sets — often with 24–48 hour revisions.

Local Code Knowledge — We’re based in Roseville and work with cities across Sacramento, Placer, Yuba, Yolo, and El Dorado counties. We know what local building departments are looking for and we design your plans to get approved

Direct, Responsive Communication — You work directly with us. No middlemen, no confusion. Text, call, or email and we’ll get you answers fast.

If you are looking for Drafters to work with, we would love to help wherever we can!
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