Electrical work in Washington requires a permit and inspection. However, there are a few exceptions. If you're not sure if your work requires an electrical permit and inspection, check Chapter 296-46B-901 WAC.
Electrical permits must be purchased by the electrical contractor or the property owner or homeowner who will actually be doing the work. If you are hiring an electrical contractor, they must purchase their own permits for the work they do on your property.
You must get your electrical permit and inspection from the correct jurisdiction:
- If your jobsite is in a city that does their own permits and inspections or in Tacoma Power's service area, then you must purchase the permit and request the inspection from them.
- All other jobsites in Washington are permitted and inspected by L&I.
A plan review is required for electrical installations or alterations at educational, institutional, health, or other personal care facilities within L&I’s jurisdiction.
L&I inspects electrical work using the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC). To access the free read only version on that page, select the 2023 edition, select View Free Access and create an account to log in.
Learn more about adopted standards by visiting our Electrical Installation Information page.
Getting started
You must purchase a permit before starting any electrical work. Visit our Purchase Permits & Request Inspections page for more information about permits and inspections.