Demolition
More FAQs...
Demolition permits require the results of a Demolition Investigation and Review (Demo I&R) process before being issued. Below are some of the common questions we receive about this process.
- Why do I have to go through the Demo I&R process?
- The Historic Preservation Chapter of the City Code requires that any structure 50 years old or older, be reviewed for eligibility to the Sacramento Register of Historic & Cultural Resources (17.134.430) prior to securing a demolition permit. The "Demolition Investigation & Report" form (Demo I&R) is what needs to be completed to start the review.
- Do I need to submit an I&R for my garage or shed?
- Yes. The Code states that any structure over 50 years old requires review, which includes accessory structures such as garages and sheds.
- Is there a fee?
- Yes, a nominal processing fee is charged for commercial and residential structures. Accessory structures, such as garages or sheds, do not require a fee.
- What is a "demolition?"
- For Demo I&Rs, the code defines demolition as the removal of an aggregate of fifty (50) or more linear feet of exterior wall OR more than fifty percent (50%) of the footprint of the structure, whichever applies.
- What is included in a Demo I&R submittal?
- A Demo I&R submittal includes a completed Demo I&R form, photographs of all sides of the building or structure proposed for demolition, and contextual photos. Examples of contextual photos would include photos of the house that goes with the garage proposed for demo, or the houses across the street and to either side of the house proposed for demo.
- What happens if my property is determined eligible?
- If the Preservation Director makes a preliminary determination that your property is eligible for listing in the Sacramento Register, Preservation staff is required by the Historic Preservation Chapter of the City Code (17.134.430) to take it through the nomination process. You will not be charged a fee for this. The nomination is heard by the Preservation Commission, who makes a recommendation to the City Council. It is the City Council’s decision whether to list the property in the Sacramento Register of Historic & Cultural Resources.
- Can I still demolish my property if it is determined eligible?
- An application to demolish a listed historic resource is subject to a more rigorous demolition review process and hearing before the Preservation Commission. The Commission could potentially deny the application. Also, the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) dictates a particular review process, and it is significantly more costly than the I&R.
- Has a garage or other type of accessory structure ever been found eligible?
- No, but we’re looking!
- How can I get more information on the Demo I&R process?
- You can email Associate Planner Kathleen Forrest at kforrest@cityofsacramento.org or contact the Planning Help Desk at planning@cityofsacramento.org.