Does Sacramento Require a Permit for Kitchen Remodeling?

Everyone knows that kitchens sell homes. If done well, the money you invest in renovations will pay off when it comes time to sell.

Even if youre not considering selling, a remodeled kitchen can make using your kitchen a pleasure, and it may even free up more space.

But do you know which kitchen home improvements require a permit? Read on to find out.

What Are Permits and Why Do You Need One?

Building permits are how a municipality regulates construction. They ensure safety and promote energy conservation across all projects.

Though they add extra paperwork and can cause delays, permits are necessary.

Its also important to know that if you begin your remodel without a building permit, you may face a penalty fee.

Decide on the Kitchen Home Improvements You Want to Make

Before applying for a permit to remodel your kitchen, you need to decide on the changes you want to make.

A good starting point is to consult with a kitchen remodeling expert.

There are countless changes you could make to your kitchen. Are you moving the location of the sink? How about knocking down walls?

These decisions are crucial in determining whether you need a building permit.

Once you have a solid plan, its easier to figure out which permits youll need.

Residential Non-Structural/Non-Floor Plan Changing Kitchen Remodel

All kitchen renovations require different permits. In Sacramento, simple or minor renovations fall under the category of non-structural.

For these projects, you wont be removing or adding walls. You also wont be creating or enlarging an opening in load-bearing walls.

You may need to submit your remodel plans to verify that a wall is non-load bearing.

For example, if your kitchen is outdated and you want to give it a refresh by adding new appliances, moving or adding cabinets, or changing the flooring and wall tiles, these updates will help your kitchen look clean and modern. However, they require a permit and the payment of certain fees.

For these types of remodels, youll need to pay the following fees:

• Building Permit Fee
• General Plan Fee
• Green Building Fee
• Technology Fee

Note that if youre simply changing fixtures, you may pay a smaller fee.

Residential Remodel

Your kitchen project could also fall under the residential remodel category.

This includes a wide range of projects, such as adding an extra bedroom, a screened-in porch, or new windows.

A complete kitchen overhaul typically falls into the residential remodel category. If your renovation involves significant changes, such as repairs to electrical, mechanical, or plumbing systems, it will likely require a plan review.

The following fees are required for residential remodels:

• Building Permit Fee (Inspection & Intake)
• General Plan Fee
• Green Building Fee
• Plan Review Fee
• Strong Motion Fee
• Technology Fee

As you can see, some fees are shared with non-structural remodels, while others are additional.

Additional fees may apply depending on the scope of your project, such as a construction debris fee, fire department review fee, or planning division monitoring or inspection fees.

If you still have questions, contact the City of Sacramento.

When a Permit Is Not Required

For superficial changes to your kitchen, a permit is not necessary.

For instance, painting walls, installing carpeting, tiling, adding cabinets, changing countertops, and similar projects typically do not require a permit.

These are often minor remodeling jobs. If youre unsure whether a project requires a permit, call the City to find out.

How Do You Get a Permit?

The first step is to measure and create a drawing of your current kitchen layout. This drawing shows how your kitchen looks before any remodeling.

Using these plans, you or your kitchen contractor will draft a new set of plans showing how your space will look after the remodel.

Your experienced kitchen contractor offers a one-stop-shop, including drafting the design and submitting the permits on your behalf.

Timelines

It can take some time for your permit application to be approved, depending on how busy the city department is. Typically, you can expect approval to take 4-6 weeks.

Additionally, once you have a permit, various home inspections will be required during construction. All work must stop until the inspection is approved. If the inspector isnt satisfied with the work, your contractor will need to make corrections and reschedule the inspection.

This is why its crucial to choose a reputable contractor who can help you avoid delays and arrange inspections efficiently.

Also, be aware that if you live in certain special zones, such as near an airport, your plans may need to be reviewed by the FAA.

A Kitchen You Will Love

Thank you for reading. Now you know all about which kitchen home improvements require permits in Sacramento.