Small Business Liaison

• SAVE THE DATE: Wednesday, June 17, 2026 (2-4 pm) - Registration information coming soon for the next in-person workshop
• Learn more about the workshop

Use the New Tenant Guidance Worksheet

• The New Tenant Guidance Worksheet is a helpful tool to evaluate potential tenant spaces

Contact Planning department

Email Planning and include:

• A detailed description of your business
• The address of the proposed tenant space
• A completed New Tenant Guidance Worksheet - CDD-0458 (Optional)

Note: If your business involves the sale of alcohol, Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) requirements may apply.

Accessibility requirements

• Accessibility upgrades are required with each permit until the building meets full compliance
• Ask property owner about recent tenant improvements
• Ask property owner if they have a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) report

Common scenarios requiring Planning review

Below are some instances that would require Planning review.

Exterior modifications

• Changes to the building’s exterior (e.g., façade remodels, new windows, doors, fencing, or parking improvements) may require a Site Plan and Design Review
• Minor changes may be reviewed at staff level or exempt from review

Learn more about Site Plan and Design Review

Alcohol sales

• Off-site consumption: requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) from the Planning and Design Commission
• On-site consumption: a CUP is required only for bars, not restaurants

Historic properties

Projects involving:

• Designated historic landmarks
• Properties in historic districts
• Structures over 50 years old (if demolition is proposed)

Must be reviewed by Historic Preservation staff through a Site Plan and Design Review application.    

Tree removal

Removing a tree on private property or in the public right-of-way requires a tree permit and may involve a public hearing.

Determine permit requirements

• Does your project require a building permit? 
• Does your project require construction plans? 
• Does your project require a licensed design professional? View Who May Prepare Plans (CDD-0236) for guidance

Forms

• Building Permit Application - CDD-0200

• Accessibility Upgrade Requirements for Existing Non-Residential Buildings (Declaration and Certification) - CDD-0201
• Before You Start Your Project - CDD-0311
• Criteria for Over-the-Counter Plan Review - CDD-0114
• Cycle Times for Building Plan Review - CDD-0294
• Electronic Plan Check (EPC) Submittal Checklist - CDD-0316
• Fees and Charges Collected on Commercial Building Permits - CDD-0216
• Remodel and Tenant Improvement Submittal Checklist (Commercial) - CDD-0231
• Restaurant Guidelines to a Grand Opening - CDD-0102
• Sign Permit Application - CDD-0274
• Who May Prepare Plans - CDD-0236

Sacramento Area Sewer District (SacSewer)

Sewer impact fees

A receipt from the Sacramento Area Sewer District (SacSewer) is required prior to permit issuance. This may include payment of sewer impact fees or confirmation that no fees are due.

• Contact SacSewer with your permit number(s) to obtain a statement
• Pay any required fees to SacSewer
• Email receipt to City staff

Sacramento County Environmental Management Department

Environmental Health Division

Reviews and inspects retail food facilities, public pools and spas, and aquatic features.

View Environmental Health Division requirements

Offsite Improvements & Encroachment Permits

Public Works

If your project includes offsite improvements or work in the public right-of-way, you must complete the Public Works application and approval process before your building permit can be issued.

View more information on Public Works permits

Construction Debris Recycling

Solid Waste

All projects covered by CALGreen and building permits require a C&D Permit, which mandates that 65% of all debris generated during the course of a project be recycled.

View C&D recycling requirements

Air Quality Clearance

Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District

Projects must comply with Rule 902 Asbestos.

Visit Sac Metro Air District for more information on asbestos requirements

School district impact fees

Once plan review is nearly complete, you will receive a School District Certification Form from City staff.

• Complete Part 1
• Submit to the appropriate school district for fee payment
• Return the completed form with proof of payment

View school district contact information

Flood risk

Hold Harmless Agreement

If your project is in a flood zone, a Hold Harmless Agreement must be signed by the property owner and notarized. Documentation may be required to verify ownership (e.g., LLC Statement of Information).

View Flood Zone Construction Requirements for additional information

Request an address

If the current address is to change, you must submit an Address Request form to Addressing before occupancy or submission of tenant improvement plans.

View addressing information and forms