Permits & Inspections
When California homeowners need an electrical permit, what happens at the inspection, and what to do about unpermitted electrical work.
Permits can feel like a hassle, but they're there to keep you and your home safe. These guides explain when California homeowners usually need an electrical permit, what happens at an inspection, and what to do about older work that was never permitted.
Guides in this section 3
Do I need an electrical permit? (California)
Which home electrical jobs need a permit in California: panels, new circuits, EV chargers, generators, solar and remodels, plus what is usually exempt.
Read guide Permits & InspectionsWhat happens at an electrical inspection
What happens during a city or county electrical inspection for a panel, EV charger or remodel, why someone needs to be home, and what happens if it fails.
Read guide Permits & InspectionsUnpermitted electrical work and selling a home
What to do about unpermitted electrical work in California: disclosure, buyer inspections, insurance, and getting work permitted and inspected after the fact.
Read guideHelpful tools
More sections
- Panels & Service Upgrades
- EV Chargers
- Generators & Battery Backup
- Solar
- Safety & Hazards
- Older Homes & Old Wiring
- Troubleshooting
- Wiring Basics
- Lighting & Outlets
- Calculators & Tools
General information for California homes. Local rules and inspectors can vary. Not a substitute for an on-site inspection.