Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $70–$250 $20 primary fee plus $0.25 per amp for service upgrades (e.g., 200A upgrade).
Fee Method Flat fee
Apply Online Apply at Inspectional Services Department →

What's Required in Boston

  • Electrical permit mandatory for panel upgrades or new circuits.
  • Work must be performed by a MA-licensed Master Electrician.
  • Circuit directory must be permanently and clearly labeled.
  • Panel must have 36 inches of front clearance per NEC.
  • Grounding and bonding to water/gas lines must be verified.
  • Arc-Fault (AFCI) protection required for modern code compliance.

How to Get a Electrical Panel Permit in Boston

1

Step 1: Hire Electrician

Licensed contractor must pull the permit on your behalf.

2

Step 2: Portal Filing

Electrician submits the application and pays the per-amp fee.

3

Step 3: Utility Service

Coordinate with Eversource for service disconnect and reconnection.

4

Step 4: Installation

Panel is swapped and all circuits are transferred/grounded.

5

Step 5: Inspection

City inspector verifies the installation before power is fully restored.

Frequently Asked Questions

Minor replacements usually don't need a permit, but a panel swap does.
The fee is approximately $70 ($20 base + $0.25 x 200 amps).
Usually 4-8 hours during the panel swap and inspection process.