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Opening a small business can be a significant undertaking. To assist you in navigating the process, the following provides an overview of the steps required to obtain a building permit and complete construction within the City of Sacramento.
Before committing to a lease, we recommend the following steps to ensure your proposed business location is suitable for your business needs:
Email Planning and include:
Note: If your business involves the sale of alcohol, Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) requirements may apply.
Some projects require additional review by the Planning Division to ensure compliance with zoning and design standards.
Below are some instances that would require Planning review.
Projects involving:
Must be reviewed by Historic Preservation staff through a Site Plan and Design Review application.
Removing a tree on private property or in the public right-of-way requires a tree permit and may involve a public hearing.
Ensure you're ready to begin the building permit process:
Once your construction plans are complete and any required Planning Entitlements are approved, you can begin the Building Permit Submittal process.
Building permits may be issued to either the property owner or a licensed contractor.
Before a permit can be issued, several requirements may need to be resolved. Once your plans are approved, City staff will provide a complete, itemized list specific to your project.
Below are common items that may apply:
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.
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.
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.
Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District
Projects must comply with Rule 902 Asbestos.
Visit Sac Metro Air District for more information on asbestos requirements
Once plan review is nearly complete, you will receive a School District Certification Form from City staff.
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
If the current address is to change, you must submit an Address Request form to Addressing before occupancy or submission of tenant improvement plans.
At your first inspection, speak with your building inspector about:
Each inspection must be scheduled separately by discipline:
Tip: Early coordination with inspectors helps avoid delays and rework.
Plan review is the first step of the permitting process
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Shareable URL: www.cityofsacramento.gov/buildingsmallbusiness
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