How long does Sacramento ADU permitting take?

State law requires Sacramento to approve or deny ADU permits within 60 days of a complete application. However, getting to a complete application typically takes 2–4 months of design work.

How much does an ADU permit cost in Sacramento?

Permit fees in Sacramento County typically range from $5,000–$15,000 depending on ADU size and type. This includes plan check fees, building permit fees, and utility connection fees.

Can I build an ADU without a permit in Sacramento?

No. Unpermitted ADUs are illegal in Sacramento and can result in fines, forced removal, and title issues when selling your property. Always obtain proper permits.

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Permits & Regulations12 min readJanuary 15, 2026

Sacramento ADU Permit Process: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Getting an ADU permit in Sacramento takes 8–14 months from start to finish. Here's exactly what to expect at each stage of the process.

Overview: The Sacramento ADU Permit Timeline

The typical ADU permit process in Sacramento County takes 60–90 days for permit approval (state-mandated maximum), but the full project timeline from initial planning to move-in is 8–14 months. Here's what that looks like broken down by phase.

Phase 1: Pre-Application Research (2–4 weeks)

Before submitting anything, you need to verify your property's eligibility and understand the local requirements.

Check your zoning designation at the Sacramento County GIS portal
Verify lot size meets minimum requirements (typically 4,000 sq ft for detached ADUs)
Review any HOA restrictions if applicable
Determine if your property is in a flood zone (FEMA flood map)
Identify your utility providers for water, sewer, and electricity

Phase 2: Design & Plans (6–10 weeks)

You'll need a complete set of architectural and structural plans. Most Sacramento ADU builders include this in their design-build package.

Architectural drawings (floor plans, elevations, sections)
Structural engineering calculations
Title 24 energy compliance report
Site plan showing ADU location, setbacks, and utilities
Grading and drainage plan if required

Phase 3: Permit Application Submission

Sacramento County accepts ADU permit applications online through their permit portal. The state mandates a 60-day review period for ADU applications.

Pro Tip: Submit your application as complete as possible. Incomplete applications restart the 60-day clock.

Phase 4: Plan Check & Corrections (2–8 weeks)

The county will review your plans and may issue correction requests. Respond promptly — each round of corrections can add 2–4 weeks to the timeline.

Phase 5: Permit Issuance & Construction

Once approved, your permit is issued and construction can begin. Construction typically takes 4–8 months depending on ADU type and complexity.

Phase 6: Inspections & Certificate of Occupancy

Multiple inspections are required during construction (foundation, framing, rough electrical, rough plumbing, insulation, final). The Certificate of Occupancy is issued after the final inspection passes.

Related Resources

Continue planning your ADU project with these guides on costs, zoning, and builder selection.

ADU Setback, Size, and Zoning Rules — Complete reference for Sacramento County building requirements
California ADU Laws 2026 — New legislation that affects permitting timelines and requirements
Sacramento ADU Cost Guide — Understand what you will pay after permits are approved
Browse Sacramento ADU Builders — Many builders handle the entire permitting process for you