Building Permits in Sacramento, CA

Updated October 14, 2026. Every link below goes to an official government site. We are not a government office and cannot issue permits.

Inside City of Sacramento limits, building permits come from the Community Development Department, Building Division. Almost all permits must be submitted online through the public permit portal. Unincorporated Sacramento County and nearby cities like Elk Grove and Roseville have their own offices.

Where to look up and apply

City of Sacramento Building Division

• Look up a permit: Sacramento Public Permit Portal: check permit status and details
• Apply for a permit: Sacramento Public Permit Portal: submit an application
• Phone: 916-808-5318 (Permit Services public counter)
• Fees: You can ask for a full fee estimate with the city's Preliminary Building Permit Fee Estimate Worksheet. Some fees collected with a permit belong to other agencies. See Building Fees on cityofsacramento.gov.

Need a licensed contractor in Sacramento?

Most permitted work has to be done by a licensed contractor. Browse local pros in our directory:

• Contractors
• Plumbers
• Electricians
• Builders
• All categories

Always check that a contractor's license is current with the state or city before you sign.