Electrical Permits

The following commercial projects require an electrical permit:

• Installation, replacement or repair of wiring systems
• Installation, replacement or repair of electrical devices such as switches or receptacles of all types
• Installation, replacement or repair of all electrical equipment and/or appliances, including panelboards and HVAC equipment

Electrical Permit Submission Requirements

The following items are required when applying for a commercial electrical permit:

• Trade Permit Application (PDF)
• Two (2) copies of the plans and specifications of the proposed work shall be submitted. Each individual project varies. If you are uncertain what will be required, contact our Commercial Plans Reviewer for more information at (757) 890-3579.

Electrical Plan Submission Requirements

Electrical plans and details to include the following:

• Complete signed and sealed plans and specifications of all electrical work. 
• Labeling criteria of all electrical equipment. 
• Lighting floor plans including electrical circuits indicating conduit and wiring sizes. 
• Power floor plans including electrical circuits indicating conduit and wiring sizes, equipment and disconnect switches.
• Exit sign/means of egress lighting location and power supply. 
• Panelboard schedule. 
• Lighting fixture schedule. 
• Symbol schedule and diagrams. 
• Specifications to include requirements for: 
  • Raceway and conduit fittings. 
  • Wire and cable. 
  • Electrical boxes, fittings and installation. 
  • Electrical connections. 
  • Electrical wiring devices. 
  • Circuit and motor disconnects. 
  • Hangers and supporting devices. 
  • Electrical identification.
  •  Service entrance and details.
  •  Overcurrent protection. 
  • Switchboards. 
  • Grounding. 
  • Transformers. 
  • Panelboards. 
  • Motor Control centers. 
  • Lighting fixtures. 
  • Fire protective signaling systems. 
  • Automatic fire detection systems. 
  • Emergency/standby systems.

Energy requirements for electrical plans to include the following: 

• Riser diagram(s) of the distribution system indicating: 
  • Check metering provisions for individual dwelling units. 
  • Subdivision of feeders by end use: 
    • Lighting, 
    • HVAC, 
    • SWH and 
    • Systems over 20kW 
• Lighting fixture schedule(s) depicting location, fixture lamps, ballasts, ballast specifications, fixture input watts, fixture wiring methods, power factor, etc. 
• Lighting plan(s) for building exteriors including total exterior Connected Lighting Power. 
• Lighting and power floor plans for building interiors including total interior CLP. 
• LTGSTD output (where applicable). 
• Interior and exterior means of lighting control. 
• Electric motor schedule including type, HP and efficiencies