Electrical Permits in Los Angeles:
A Complete Guide [2026]
Everything you need to know about electrical permits in Los Angeles. LADBS permit process, costs, timelines, and why permitted work protects your home.
Permit Guide
Do You Need an Electrical Permit in Los Angeles?
In Los Angeles, most electrical work requires a permit from LADBS or your local city building department.
When Permits Are Needed
When Do You Need an Electrical Permit?
- New circuits or wiring
Adding any new electrical circuit requires a permit — including EV chargers, new outlets, or subpanels. - Panel upgrades or replacements
Any work on your main electrical panel requires a permit and inspection. - EV charger installation
All Level 2 EV charger installations require an electrical permit. Permitted work qualifies for LADWP rebate. - Whole-home rewiring
Rewiring requires a permit with multiple inspections at rough-in and final stages. - Generator transfer switch
Installing a transfer switch requires a permit and utility coordination. - Structural electrical modifications
Moving the meter, relocating the panel, or adding service capacity requires permits.
Permit Costs
Electrical Permit Fees by City
| Item | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| LADBS Electrical Permit (minor) | $150 – $300 |
| LADBS Electrical Permit (panel upgrade) | $200 – $500 |
| LADBS Plan Check (complex) | $300 – $1,000+ |
| Burbank Building & Safety | $100 – $400 |
| Glendale Building & Safety | $100 – $350 |
| Santa Monica Building & Safety | $150 – $400 |
Fees vary by city. AMY Electric includes permit fees in all quotes.
Why Permits Matter
Why Permitted Work Matters
- Insurance risk — Unpermitted work may not be covered by homeowners insurance if it causes a fire
- Home sale issues — Unpermitted work is frequently flagged during inspections, creating liability
- Safety — Electrical inspections verify code compliance. Without them, faulty work goes undetected
- Rebate eligibility — LADWP rebates require permitted installations with proof of inspection
Permit Process
How the Electrical Permit Process Works
1
Contractor Applies
Your C-10 contractor submits the permit application to LADBS or your city's building department.
2
Application Review
The city reviews the scope. Complex projects may require plan check.
3
Permit Issued
Once approved, work can begin within the permit window.
4
Final Inspection
After work is complete, a final inspection confirms code compliance.
Related
Related Services & Resources
Ready to Get Started?
Contact AMY Electric for a free estimate. Our licensed, C-10 certified team serves all of Greater Los Angeles.
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