Washington, Pierce County Electrician Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Pierce County Electrician Permit Requirements
In Pierce County, Washington, the jurisdiction for electrical permits and inspections can be complex, especially for properties in unincorporated areas. Tacoma Power plays a significant role in these areas.
- Jurisdiction: For properties in unincorporated Pierce County, Tacoma Power typically issues permits and performs inspections. This service area extends as far south as Roy.
- Verification: It is crucial to verify the correct jurisdiction before applying for a permit to avoid delays and potential refund processing fees. You can use the Washington State Department of Revenue's tax rate lookup tool to help determine if your project is within a city's inspection jurisdiction. If no city is named, the address is likely in the county.
- Unincorporated Areas: If your job site is not within the city limits of a city that handles its own permits or within Tacoma Power's service area, you will need to obtain your permit from Washington State's Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).
- Permit Necessity: Electrical work in Washington generally requires a permit and inspection, with some exceptions outlined in Chapter 296-46B-901 WAC. Permits must be obtained before starting any electrical work.
- Who Obtains Permits: Electrical permits must be purchased by the electrical contractor or the property owner/homeowner performing the work. If hiring an electrical contractor, they are responsible for obtaining their own permits.
- Permit Validity: A permit becomes null and void if work is not commenced within six months of issuance or if work is suspended for a continuous period of six months after commencement. A new permit would be required in such cases.