Sac County Building Department | Permits, Inspections & Official Contact

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If you are planning any kind of construction, renovation, addition, deck, fence, roof replacement, pool, solar installation, or other building work in unincorporated Sacramento County, California (including areas near Elk Grove, Rancho Cordova, Citrus Heights, Folsom, Galt, and other parts of the county outside city limits), you will need a building permit from the Sacramento County Building Department (part of the Department of Public Works and Transportation – Building Permits & Inspections).

Many homeowners and contractors search for clear answers about how to apply for a building permit in Sacramento County, what the fees are in 2026, and how to use the Accela Public Permit Portal for faster applications, payments, status checks, and inspection scheduling.

This guide explains the entire process in simple language so you can understand what to do, what to expect, and how to avoid common problems that slow things down.

Whether you are a homeowner doing your own work or a contractor handling a larger job, the steps are the same and the goal is to get your permit approved smoothly and on time.

Sacramento County Building Department Contact Information 2026

  • Address: 827 7th Street, Room 102, Sacramento, CA 95814
  • Phone: (916) 874-6141 (Building Permits & Inspections)
  • Email: building@saccounty.gov
  • Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (permit counter and inspection scheduling hours may vary)

Official Page: Sacramento County Building Permits & Inspections

827 7th Street, Room 102, Sacramento, CA 95814

Official Portal: Sacramento County Accela Public Permit Portal

  1. Go to the Accela Public Permit Portal.
  2. Search by property address or permit number.
  3. View the current status, approved plans, fees paid, and inspection history.

How to Apply for Sacramento County Building Permits 2026

Here is the clear step-by-step process that most people follow to get their permit approved as smoothly as possible.

  1. Go to the Accela Public Permit Portal and create or log into your account.
  2. Start a new application and choose the right permit type for your project.
  3. Enter the full project address and your best estimate of the total construction valuation.
  4. Upload all required drawings, site plans, specifications, and supporting documents.
  5. Pay the required fees online and submit the complete application.
  6. Check your account regularly and reply quickly to any requests for additional information or corrections during review.
  7. Once approved, display the permit at the job site before any work begins.
  8. Schedule inspections through the portal.

Sacramento County Building Permit Fees 2026

  • Official Fee Schedule (Effective July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026): Download the latest Building Fee Schedule from the county website.
  • Fees are based on project type, size, complexity, and valuation using current tables.
  • Plan check fees are typically 65% of the building permit fee.
  • Separate fees apply for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and other trade permits.
  • Additional charges include re-inspection fees, technology surcharges (3%), and other county fees.
  • Work started without a permit can result in doubled fees plus possible fines or a Stop Work Order.

Required Documents Checklist

  • Completed online permit application via Accela Portal
  • Detailed construction drawings and specifications
  • Site plan showing existing structures and proposed work
  • Proof of contractor license and insurance
  • Owner-Builder Verification Form if applicable
  • Any required trade permit applications or supporting calculations

How to Schedule Inspections in Sacramento County

Schedule inspections through the Accela portal. Requests received before 3:00 PM are typically scheduled for the next business day. Have your approved plans and the permit ready when the inspector arrives. Re-inspection fees may apply for failed or missed inspections.

Contractor Registration & Owner-Builder

Contractors must be properly licensed and can register in the Accela system. Homeowners can apply as owner-builders but must take full responsibility for code compliance and job safety. The department enforces the California Building Code with local amendments.

Local Insider Tips That Really Help

  • Use the Accela Public Permit Portal for online applications, fee payments, status tracking, and inspection scheduling — it is the one-stop shop for most services.
  • Submit complete and clearly labeled drawings the first time to avoid delays in plan review.
  • Pay plan check fees at the time of application for faster review.
  • Call (916) 874-6141 during business hours for questions or status checks.
  • Review the current Building Fee Schedule before submitting to budget accurately for valuation-based fees and surcharges.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I search for existing building permits in Sacramento County?

Use the Accela Public Permit Portal by property address or permit number.

How to apply for a Sacramento County building permit?

Apply online through the Accela Public Permit Portal. Submit required documents and pay fees as notified. Once accepted, your application goes to plan review.

What are the Sacramento County building permit fees in 2026?

Fees are based on project type, size, and valuation. Download the latest Building Fee Schedule (FY 2025-2026) from the county website for exact rates.

Can I pull my own permit as an owner-builder in Sacramento County?

Yes. You can apply as an owner-builder, but you must take full responsibility for code compliance and job safety.

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

Simple projects can be processed relatively quickly. More complicated jobs usually take between one and three weeks depending on completeness and workload.

Official Resources

Updated April 2026 using only official Sacramento County sources. Use the Accela Public Permit Portal for faster submission and real-time tracking.

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