Washington State Department of Labor & Industries Permit Requirements

Are you a do-it-yourselfer?   Don’t forget the electrical permit!

A message from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, about 18,200 home fires are caused by electrical wiring each year, resulting in about 120 deaths, 520 injuries, and $450 million in property damage.

Protect your family and your property:

·       An electrical permit is required. Washington state electrical safety laws require a permit and inspection for ALL new and additional electrical work. An electrical permit and professional inspection assures that your electrical work meets current safety code.

·       Do electrical work only if you are qualified. If you do not have a good understanding of electrical wiring and are not qualified, hire a licensed electrical contractor.

·       If you do your own electrical work, you must buy the permit and call for an inspection.

·       If you hire a licensed electrical contractor, your contractor must buy the permit and will get the inspection.

·       Never overload outlets, extension cords or electrical circuits. If your circuit breaker trips, either it is overloaded or a circuit has malfunctioned and should be inspected by a qualified person.

Keep your permit and inspection approval in a safe place for future reference. You may need it when trying to sell or refinance your home or to get insurance.

Remember: The surest way to safeguard your home is with an electrical permit and inspection. Lives depend on it!

Contact L&I for more information

Contact the nearest office of the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) to learn more, or go online to www.ElectricalProgram.Lni.wa.gov.

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