FAST ELECTRIC SPOKANE · GUIDE
How electrical permits work in Spokane and Washington
Permits and inspections are part of checking that electrical work meets applicable safety rules. Here is how the system works in Washington, in plain language.
When a permit is needed
Most electrical work needs a permit: new circuits, panel changes, rewiring, new wiring for additions, hot tubs, EV chargers and generators. Like-for-like swaps, such as replacing an outlet or a light fixture on an existing box, are often exempt. When in doubt, the permitting office answers the question in one phone call.
Who issues permits
Depending on the jobsite address, permits and inspections are handled either by the city or by Washington State Labor & Industries (L&I). L&I covers most of the state, including areas without their own city program.
Who buys the permit
If you hire an electrical contractor, the contractor must buy the permit for the work they do for you; that is an L&I rule, and it also makes the contractor responsible for passing inspection. Homeowners may buy a permit only when they are doing the work themselves on their own property, and L&I strongly encourages hiring a licensed contractor instead.
Permit source: Washington L&I: electrical permits and inspections
How inspection works
- Permit purchased before work starts
- Work completed to code
- Inspection requested from the city or L&I
- Inspector passes the work, or lists corrections to make
- For service work, the utility reconnects power after the pass
Check before you hire
Washington requires electrical contractors to be licensed with L&I. Use the L&I verification service to check the relevant electrical contractor license and available bond and insurance information. Ask for the electrical contractor license number and verify it before work starts.
Related guides and pages
Electrical panel upgrade cost in Spokane · EV charger permits in Spokane · Electrical services · Planning guide
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