Electrical Permit

When is an Electrical Permit Needed?

Electrical permits are required for any electrical work performed in conjunction with the construction, alteration, repair, or conversion of a building. Permits are also required for the installation, alteration or relocation of an electrical branch circuit, service or feeder.

The following are some examples of when electrical permits are required. This information is not all-inclusive, so please check with Development Services staff to discuss the scope of your project.

Projects that require an electrical permit:

• Install, change or repair any hardwired electrical system
• Run any additional wiring, put in an additional outlet or light fixture, or change your fuse box to circuit breakers
• Install or alter low-voltage systems such as security alarms, central vacuum systems, low-voltage lighting or phone systems

No electrical permit is required to replace light bulbs, fluorescent tubes, or approved fuses or to connect approved portable electrical equipment to permanent and properly wired receptacles. Additional information can be found in the Oregon Electrical Specialty Code (OESC).

Who May Purchase this Permit?

The property owner (or his/her authorized agent) or a licensed electrical contractor may purchase these permits. Oregon contractors must be registered with the Construction Contractors Board and the Building Codes Division.

What is the Cost of the Permit?

The Development Services Division Fee Schedule describes the cost of electrical permit fees. A fee schedule is included as part of the Electrical Permit Application Form.

Minor Electrical Labels

The code allows certain installations to be conducted under the approval of “Minor Electrical Labels”. Minor labels can only be purchased by a licensed electrical contractor. Development Services Procedure 3003 and the State Building Codes Division provides more information about Minor Electrical Labels.

Are Plans Required?

Plans may be required based on the scope of the project. Reference the Electrical Permit Application Form or contact us for more information.

How Do I Apply?

You can apply for a permit online or in our office. For online submittals, you will be able to submit your application and upload documents at www.corvallispermits.com. If you wish to submit your application in-person, please bring one (1) hard copy of all necessary applications and forms and three (3) copies of plans (if required) to our office. Full details on the submittal process can be found here.