In a previous post we explained how to get your electrical work approved in Shoreline. In this post we’ll dive into getting electrical work approved in Washington’s largest city; Seattle.

Determine if you Need a Permit

First you want to determine if you need a permit for your project. The City of Seattle publishes a list of common projects that require permits.

In the City of Seattle you need an electrical permit any time electrical wiring is installed, altered, extended, or connected to any electrical equipment, including signs. You may not need a permit for some residential or minimally-sized low-voltage systems. Special events, such as street fairs, that have temporary power installations do require an electrical permit.

For requirements on low voltage projects, be sure to review this checklist.

Request a Permit

For low voltage projects, you can apply directly online using this link.

You can also call (206) 684-8464 with any permit questions you may have.

Request an Inspection

You can schedule your inspection to get your permit request approval via this link.

Most electrical permits require three inspections: cover, service, and final.

Cover inspection:

Conduction of this inspection starts after all new circuits have wires (boxes installation, wires run, grounding conduction, nail plates installation). Cover inspections also include underground installations.Don’t cover your work with insulation, receptacles, or wall switches until the inspector has approved it. Don’t cover trenches, ditches, or slabs until the inspector has approved them.

Service and feeder inspection:

Conduction of this inspection starts after the installation of service electrical mast, meter base, service panels, grounding electrode conductors, and branch circuits (if possible).

Final inspections:

This inspection is possible upon electrical work completion. Make sure panel boxes have covers, circuits have labels in the right spaces on the box, and all cover plates are in place. You must have all equipment and appliances installed, grounded, and energized for final inspection.

A permit may not have approval if the inspector could not get on site, if the work is not yet complete or if there are code violations. When the city has to do more than one re-inspection, they may charge an additional fee.

You can access inspection results at the services portal.