Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $150–$350 A $292 minimum base fee per hour for residential service upgrades.
Fee Method Flat rate
Apply Online Apply at Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections →

What's Required in Seattle

  • Electrical permit required for all panel replacements, relocations, or service upgrades
  • Work must comply with the 2023 National Electrical Code as adopted by Seattle
  • Panels must be installed in accessible areas and maintain NEC working clearances
  • Seattle City Light must be coordinated for service interruption and reconnection
  • Proper grounding to the water main and driven ground rods is mandatory
  • Smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarms must be interconnected throughout the house during permit work

Do You Need a Permit to Upgrade an Electrical Panel in Seattle?

Yes — panel work is one of the least optional permits in Seattle. Replacing or upgrading an electrical panel involves the service equipment for the whole house, so the city wants an inspection on the other side of it. Permit fees typically run $150–$350 through the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections. An unpermitted panel is also one of the first things home inspectors and insurers flag, so the permit protects the resale, not just the wiring.

Upgrading From 100 to 200 Amps in Seattle

The classic project is moving from a 100-amp to a 200-amp service to feed an EV charger, heat pump, or induction range. In Seattle that's a permitted service upgrade like any panel change: permit, inspection, and a licensed electrician doing the work. Worth budgeting time for: on record here, a $292 minimum base fee per hour for residential service upgrades. Inspectors typically verify grounding and bonding, working clearances around the panel, and a properly labeled circuit directory before signing off.

How to Get a Electrical Panel Permit in Seattle

1

Step 1: Hire Licensed Electrician

Verify the contractor has a current Washington State specialty license.

2

Step 2: Service Application

Submit an Electric Service Application to Seattle City Light for the panel change.

3

Step 3: SDCI Permit Filing

Apply for the electrical permit online; smaller projects are often 'Over-the-Counter'.

4

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay the flat permit fee ($150 minimum typical) via the Seattle Services Portal.

5

Step 5: Inspection & Release

Schedule a final inspection; the city notifies City Light to restore power after passing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Typically $150 to $350 for a standard residential panel upgrade.
No, service-level work must be performed by a licensed electrician.
Electrical permits for standard service upgrades are often issued same-day online.
Yes — panel replacements and service upgrades require an electrical permit and inspection in Seattle. Fees typically run $150–$350.