Building inspections for qualifying projects are now conducted virtually by the City’s Community Development Department using VuSpex software, creating a more efficient process for both customers and inspectors.
Contractors and homeowners can now select a virtual inspection time, if their project meets the criteria, using any device with a camera and internet connection.
Qualifying permits for virtual inspection include minor HVAC and water heater installations, solar, EV Chargers, and optional residential re-roof.
“This tool has been helpful in enhancing our streamlining efforts since offering virtual inspections cuts out the drive time it takes for inspectors to get to physical locations,” said the City’s Chief Building Official Chuck Clark. “This allows for simple permitting inspections to be done quickly, which allows inspectors in the field to dedicate time to more complex projects.”
This new software helps customers save time by eliminating scheduling delays in the field, boosting efficiency and helping projects stay on schedule.
Since the launch of utilizing virtual inspections in late 2025, there have been over 3,500 inspections completed. Inspectors rotate the role of performing virtual inspections by spending time in the office as well as out in the field visiting site locations.
In 2025, Streamline Sacramento launched in an effort to boost housing production, reduce construction costs and improve the development approval process. Adding virtual inspections meets goals of this initiative and was highlighted in the year-end recap to City Council on Feb. 24.
For more information, visit our new Virtual Inspections webpage.