Do I Need a Permit to Upgrade My Electrical Panel? What to Know Before Making the Switch

If your home’s electrical needs have outgrown your current electrical system, you’re probably wondering: Do I need a permit to upgrade my electrical panel? The short answer is yes, although the specifics vary depending on your local municipality.

Electrical panel upgrades are considered major electrical work, and local building codes typically require a permit to ensure the work is done safely and up to code. This guide will help you plan ahead and understand what's expected for this project.

Why You Need a Permit to Upgrade an Electrical Panel

Electrical permits aren’t just a bureaucratic hassle and extra expense—they ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. Here’s why securing a permit is essential:

• Ensures compliance with local codes: Permits ensure electrical panel upgrades meet the National Electrical Code (NEC) and any state or municipal regulations.

• Protects your home and investment: An electrical inspection verifies that the work is up to code, reducing the risk of electrical fires or other hazards. 

• Assures potential buyers that the work was performed safely and legally: If you sell your home, buyers and inspectors will want to see proof that any major electrical work was permitted and inspected.

• Prevents legal and insurance Issues: Insurance companies may deny claims related to electrical fires caused by unpermitted work, and some municipalities will charge fines or require homeowners to redo work that wasn't properly permitted.

How to Obtain an Electrical Permit

Professional electricians often handle the permitting requirements of each job, so a good question to ask an electrician before you hire is what to expect from the permitting requirements. However, if you’re skilled in electrical work and planning to DIY, securing an electrical permit involves a few key steps:

1. Obtain the permit application: Start by acquiring the necessary permit forms from your local building department. These can often be found online or requested via email, mail, or in person.

2. Complete the application: Fill out the application thoroughly, providing details about your property and the scope of work. Some areas may require an Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN) or similar property identifier.

3. Submit construction plans (if required): Some municipalities require supporting documents, such as electrical schematics or a project description, to ensure compliance with local codes.

4. Pay the permit fee: Fees vary depending on your location and the complexity of the work. You can expect to pay $100 to $500.

5. Schedule an inspection: After the work is complete, an inspector will verify that the installation meets safety standards.

Signs You Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade

Not sure if it’s the right time to increase your home’s electrical capacity? These are some of the main signs that you need an electrical panel upgrade: 

• Frequent breaker trips: If your circuits can’t handle your home’s electrical demands, an upgrade can prevent overloads.

• Flickering or dimming lights: Frequent light disturbances can indicate an outdated panel struggling to distribute power effectively.

• Burning smells or heat near the panel: These are serious warning signs of potential electrical fires and should be addressed immediately.

• Your home is over 40 years old: Older panels may not comply with current electrical codes and may struggle with modern electrical needs.

How to Upgrade an Electrical Panel Safely

If you’re wondering how to safely upgrade your electrical panel, the process starts with hiring a licensed local electrician who will review the necessary work, costs, and scheduling with you. Since this process requires shutting off your home’s electricity for a while, it’s best to choose a time that minimizes disruptions. Next, your electrician will obtain the required permits from your local municipality, ensuring the upgrade meets all building and safety codes.

Before work begins, your utility company will disconnect the power to your home. The electrician will then remove the old panel, install the new one, and replace any necessary wiring or breakers. Once the installation is complete, an inspector will verify the work meets code requirements. If all is well, the utility company will restore your power and you’ll be good to go.

Why You Should Hire a Licensed Electrician

Unless you’re skilled in electrical work and well-prepared to DIY, hiring a licensed electrician is a must for upgrading an electrical panel (and performing electrical work in general). The cost of hiring an electrician for electrical panel upgrades averages between $1,200 to $2,000. While it adds a considerable amount to your budget, it’s worth the peace of mind that your new electrical panel upgrade is safe, legal, and functional.