Electrical Permits

Electrical permits are required to install, alter, or add an electrical system.  Examples include installing or altering any permanent wiring or electrical device, running additional wiring in your home or business, or installing a new electrical outlet.

Homeowners are not permitted to install, alter, or modify the main electrical service including the main panel, main breaker, or the meter base, install electrical wiring in permanent in-ground swimming pool or hot tubs, or install solar photovoltaic systems.  A licensed contractor is required for these types of projects.

An electrical permit helps to reduce the risk of safety incidents by ensuring the people involved are aware of the specific hazards, take the necessary precautions, and are competent for the work.

Apply for electrical permits through E-Permitting. Review the permit fee schedule. 

Homeowner's permits

If you have no experience with electrical wiring, it is best to hire a professional electrical contractor who is eligible to receive permits. Only master electricians are eligible to apply for permits. Work done by inexperienced installers may need expensive corrections and could be dangerous.

You can apply for a homeowner's permit if:

• You own and reside at the building (or will reside if the home is under construction).
• You will personally be installing the wiring.
• You are capable of ensuring that the work is done in accordance with the Canadian Electrical Code.

You may not apply for a homeowner's permit if:

• You do not own and reside at the premises to be wired.
• You are not personally installing the wiring.

Expiration of a permit

A building permit expires if the work has not started within 90 days of the issuance or if no work is carried out under the permit for a period of 120 consecutive days. Permits are good for a year if work is progressing.

Annual Electrical Permit

Annual Electric permit authorizes work of electrical installation, other than any major installation, on the premises of the holder by Journeyperson(s) employed on the holder’s behalf.

Application forms and Guidelines

• Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Guidelines
• Electrical permit application
• Annual electrical permit application