California / Sacramento

Deck Permit in Sacramento, California

By Mario Bailey Last verified 2026-06-17 · 2 official sources

Quick answer

Decks 30 inches or more above grade require a building permit in Sacramento. Uncovered decks less than 30 inches above grade may not require a building permit. All decks must comply with setback requirements in the Sacramento zoning code. Decks attached to the dwelling or those serving as exits also require a permit.

Permit required?

Sometimes, depending on the project.

Typical threshold: uncovered deck 30 inches or more above grade requires a building permit.

When a permit is usually needed

Before constructing any deck 30 inches or more above ground level

Permit cost and what affects it

Fees are set by the locality and are not published here. See the official fee schedule or contact the office for current amounts.

Permit costs generally depend on the project valuation, the scope of work, and the inspections required. Ask the office how the fee is calculated for your specific project.

Where to apply

City of Sacramento Community Development Department Building Division

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a deck permit in Sacramento?
Decks 30 inches or more above grade require a building permit in Sacramento. Uncovered decks less than 30 inches above grade may not require a building permit. All decks must comply with setback requirements in the Sacramento zoning code. Decks attached to the dwelling or those serving as exits also require a permit. The typical threshold is uncovered deck 30 inches or more above grade requires a building permit. Always confirm with the office before starting.
How much does a deck permit cost in Sacramento?
Fees are set by Sacramento and are not published here. Contact the office for current amounts.
How long does a deck permit take in Sacramento?
Processing time for a deck permit in Sacramento varies by workload and project scope. Contact the City of Sacramento Community Development Department Building Division for a current estimate.
Where do you apply for a deck permit in Sacramento?
You can apply through the Sacramento permit portal or contact the City of Sacramento Community Development Department Building Division directly. The links are listed on this page.

Official sources

Last verified: 2026-06-17 Report an error on this page

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