Which Electrical Permit Should I Choose?

If you have questions about getting an electrical permit, call SDCI at [phone]. If you need to make changes or additions to an OTC permit, email [email protected].

The type of electrical work you are doing and the size of your project determines which electrical permit you need to get. There are three ways to get an electrical permit through the Seattle Services Portal:

• Over the counter (OTC) (these are self-issued)
• Plan review 

The type of work that qualifies for each type of permit is as follows:

Over the Counter

• Installation in a one- or two-family home
• Work in a building that is less than 5,000 square feet and no more than 4 units
• The installation of services, feeders, or equipment that is rated at less than 400 amps
• Inspection only
  Inspection only projects are underground work (raceways only), and including only one inspection
• Special events (street fairs, concerts, etc.)
  
• Temporary power under 400 amps
  UFER ground can be inspected at the same time as the temporary if they are both ready
• Fire alarm system when 6 or less devices are installed or altered
  A panel replacement equals one device
• Photovoltaic (solar) systems rated less than 26 KW
  One line diagram will be required during your permit application, and onsite for the inspection
• Service repair
  A service repair is only for mast and meter base
• UFER installation only
• UFER test only
• Seattle City Light service meter project

Plan Review

• Temporary power with service of 400 amps or more
• Fire alarm systems
  This includes a new system, or changes to an existing system involving 7 or more alarm devices and/or control units
• Renewable energy (including solar) with a rating of 26 KW or more
• Work in an educational, institutional, or healthcare facility
• Work in an area more than 5,000 square feet
• Installation of services or feeders rated at 400 amps or more
• Services, feeders, or power supplies for emergency, legally required standby, or fire pump systems
• Switches, circuit breakers, and equipment rated at 400 amps or more
• Equipment operating at over 600 volts
• Authorization to start running conduit and/or branch circuits (previously known as "Get Started") is processed as part of your plan review permit
  To add this after you have submitted your plan review, contact [email protected]