When you’re planning a remodel, ADU, or new home in California, excitement often gives way to one big headache: permits and Title 24 energy requirements. The process can feel overwhelming — stacks of paperwork, confusing forms, and back-and-forth with city officials. But with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be stressful.
This guide will walk you through how to navigate California’s building permits and Title 24 compliance with confidence, focusing on what homeowners in Sacramento and the East Bay Area need to know.
Why Permits Matter
Permits aren’t just red tape. They protect you, your property, and your investment.
- Safety: Inspections ensure electrical, plumbing, and structural work meets code.
- Compliance: Permits confirm your project aligns with local zoning and California’s building standards.
- Resale Value: Unpermitted work can lower property value and complicate sales.
- Legal Protection: Avoids fines, stop-work orders, and costly tear-downs.
Put simply: permits are your proof that your project is done right.
Common Permit Challenges
Most homeowners struggle with the same issues:
- Confusing paperwork and submittal requirements.
- Projects bouncing between multiple departments (zoning, planning, fire, environmental).
- Plan check comments and resubmittals that drag out timelines.
- Different rules depending on whether you’re in Sacramento, Oakland, Berkeley, or Walnut Creek.
What Is Title 24?
Title 24, Part 6 of the California Code of Regulations sets statewide energy efficiency standards. It’s required for new builds, ADUs, and major remodels.
It covers four key areas:
- Building Envelope — insulation, walls, roofs, and windows.
- HVAC Systems — heating, cooling, and ventilation.
- Lighting — both natural and artificial.
- Water Heating — efficient systems and distribution.
The goal is to reduce energy waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and save homeowners money.
Sacramento vs. East Bay Requirements
Sacramento
- ADUs up to 1,200 sq. ft. require building permits and Title 24 reports.
- Historic neighborhoods like Midtown may need extra design review.
- Hot summers and cold winters mean HVAC and insulation are key for compliance.
East Bay Area
- Cities like Berkeley and Oakland have strict seismic and energy requirements.
- Title 24 reports often include solar-ready designs.
- Many lots are small, requiring creative design solutions within zoning limits.
How to Navigate the Process with Ease
1. Start with Research
Know what your city requires before you submit. Zoning laws, lot coverage, setbacks, and design guidelines all play a role.
2. Get Drafting & Energy Reports Done Right
Accurate drafting and Title 24 energy calculations are the backbone of a permit submittal. Errors here almost always lead to delays.
3. Submit a Complete Package
Cities move faster when you provide all required documents up front: site plans, floor plans, elevations, Title 24 reports, and supporting documents.
4. Respond Quickly to Plan Check Comments
Corrections are common. The faster you respond, the faster your permit moves forward.
5. Work with Experts
Partnering with a design-build firm like Origami means professionals handle the red tape, so you can focus on your project.
Benefits of Getting It Right the First Time
- Faster Approvals: Complete, accurate applications cut weeks or months off timelines.
- Cost Savings: Fewer revisions mean fewer delays and change orders.
- Peace of Mind: You’ll know your home meets code and energy standards.
- Long-Term Value: Compliance today means fewer problems when you sell or refinance.
The Origami Design-Build Advantage
At Origami Design-Build, we don’t just design beautiful homes and ADUs—we make the process seamless by managing permits and Title 24 compliance from start to finish.
- Drafting Services — permit-ready plans.
- Title 24 Energy Calculations — accurate, compliant reports.
- Permit Processing — we deal with the city, so you don’t have to.
- Design-Build Integration — one team, one process, no miscommunication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all remodels require permits?
No. Cosmetic work like painting usually doesn’t. But structural changes, plumbing, electrical, and additions almost always do.
Do I need Title 24 for a garage conversion ADU?
Yes. Even conversions must meet energy efficiency standards..
How long does the permit process take?
Simple permits can take 4–6 weeks in Sacramento. Larger projects or East Bay submissions may take 3–6 months.
How long does a Title 24 report take?
Most reports are ready in 3–5 business days once we have your plans.
Can I skip permits and just build?
Not recommended. Unpermitted work risks fines, legal issues, and reduced property value..
Does Title 24 require solar panels?
Yes, most new homes and many ADUs must be solar-ready or include solar systems.
Ready to Simplify Permits & Title 24?
Permits and Title 24 requirements don’t have to slow you down. With Origami Design-Build, you get expert guidance, fast approvals, and confidence that your project is done right.
And take the stress out of your next project.
