Not all work on your home requires a permit. Work considered "maintenance", like painting, replacing flooring, changing a toilet or sink (as long as the plumbing connections remain the same), wouldn't require a permit. Below is a partial list of projects that may or may not require a building permit from the city.Click here or on the image above to view a PDF of the document.

The cost varies by permit type, scope of work, and contract value for the project. Learn how to request a fee estimate.

For additional information or questions, contact the Building and Safety Division at 916.851.8760 or PermitServices@cityofranchocordova.org.

Yes. You can now submit certain permits and plans, as well as schedule an inspection for a residential or commercial project permit, online through Rancho Cordova Online!

No appointment is necessary.  Our counter is open Monday – Friday from 8 AM – 12 PM (last service taken at 11:30 AM), 1 PM – 4:30 PM (last service taken at 4 PM), and closed for lunch 12 PM – 1 PM.

All permits and plans can be submitted online. You can apply for a permit, submit plans, schedule inspections, upload documents, and more. Information about the status of your permit or plans and any required documentation will also be available. Visit Rancho Cordova Online to get started.

Depending on the complexity of the project, the average turnaround time for building plan review is 10-15 business days for the first set of comments.

Under certain circumstances, it is possible to draw your own plans. However, there are certain types of projects that may need the assistance of a licensed design professional. See our handout Preparation of Plans and Specifications (RCB1014) for more information.

We are currently using the 2022 version of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. This is an 11 volume set of what is commonly called the "building codes." Title 16 of the Rancho Cordova Municipal Code covers the construction codes for swimming pools, moving buildings and mobile homes, along with the city's Administrative Code.

The current threshold valuation is $195,358 as of January 2023.

The city is in Climate Zone 12.

The Wind Load for design in Rancho Cordova is 85 MPH to 110 MPH based on the building Risk Category (2022 CBC Table 1604.5), and the exposure is C, unless you can justify exposure B (2022 CBC 1609.4.3).