Construction & Development Services

Electrical Services

Permitting & Inspection FAQs

Can you create my permit over the phone?

No, however, you can use our online web portal at www.cityoftacoma.org/permits to apply and pay for your permits.  If you need any assistance, please contact the Electrical Inspection Support Staff team at 253-502-8277 or powerei@cityoftacoma.org.  

Will someone need to be there for the inspection?

If the home is occupied or has personal items in it, we require someone over  18 to be present, preferably, someone familiar with the completed work. If the property is vacant and no personal belongings are on the premises, a key may be left onsite thereby granting access. 

TMC 12.06A.230A.4 for permits issued to owners states, “The electrical work shall be done by the applicant and he or she, as well as any person(s) who gave assistance with the electrical installation, must be present during all inspections.”

What time will the inspector be here for my inspection?

Inspections are completed between 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. There is an opportunity to speak with your inspector before arrival by calling 253-502-8277 between 7:30 a.m. and 8:15 a.m.  We do not give inspection times but can narrow the window to between 8:30 a.m. to noon or noon to 3 p.m. 

Can you just bill my permit fees to my utility bill?

No,  code 12.06.A.250 states that current standard fees for electrical services connection to the Tacoma Power system, as well as permit fees and any penalties previously assessed, must be paid before an Electrical Permit will be issued.  

Can I start work on my new construction while I am waiting for my Engineer to respond to my paid for New Service application request?

Yes, however, we do NOT recommend starting service work without an approved engineer design. Typically, no new electrical system can be installed before approval from New Services Engineering. You can apply for a New Service Application via our online web portal at www.cityoftacoma.org/permits.  

When inspections are performed by Tacoma Power prior to plan or engineering approval, electrical materials or equipment may be required to be re-installed to meet the requirements of Tacoma Municipal Code, Chapter 12.06 or 12.06A once review is complete.  

Can I request a time for my inspection?

No. You can call your inspector between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. on the morning of your scheduled inspection to find out the window of time the inspection will take place. This is not a guarantee, but we make every effort to meet the window of time given by the inspector. 

Can I request an inspection on the weekend?

Yes. An overtime inspection may be scheduled by 2 p.m. the business day before the inspection date. Additional overtime fees will apply. Contact our office at 253-502-8277 during business hours for assistance.   

What if I don't have a Final Inspection of my permit done?

A Final Inspection ensures that the completed installation meets code. Home buyers, insurance companies, and other entities may request proof of permits and inspections. 

How long is my permit good for?

You have one year from permit issuance to first inspection. The permit will remain open for one year after your last inspection under the permit. The permit will automatically close after one year if the final inspection is not complete. After the permit closes, a new permit will be required.  

Can I have the inspector's cell phone number?

No. You may call our office and we can have the inspector call you in certain instances. 

Why don't the inspectors leave stickers to prove they were here with the inspection results?

Inspectors leave notices of inspection results both onsite and/or via email if an email address is provided. 

New Services FAQs

What's the difference between an Electrical Permit, Plan Review application and New Services application?

An Electrical Permit is to get a permit to install or alter an electrical system within a building or property. 

A Plan Review application is to start the process of reviewing a proposed electrical service over 400A to ensure the proposed installation complies with necessary codes. A Plan Review does not replace field inspections nor does an approved review imply that no other corrections may be needed. 

A New Service application is for the engineering and construction of facilities or movement of existing Tacoma Power owned facilities to provide power or necessary clearances to the project or property. 

Why do I need engineering?

Engineering is needed to design a reliable system with adequate capacity to serve the new or additional load and to create working documents for the proper installation and tracking of the new system.  

How long does the process take?

Click here for updated estimated times of the application process. We do our best to work to the customer’s schedule. The sooner we have a realistic schedule from a customer, the better we can meet the customer’s timeline. 

Can I start the work on my new construction while waiting for my Engineer to respond to my paid for New Service application request?

Yes, however, we do NOT recommend starting service work without an approved engineer design. Typically, no new electrical system can be installed before approval from New Services Engineering. You can apply for a New Service Application via our online web portal at CityofTacoma.org/Permits. 

What portion of the underground service installation is the customer's responsibility versus Tacoma Power's?

The customer is typically responsible for the civil portion of the new Tacoma Power system and is responsible for all the customer side work. The responsibility of the Customer and/or Tacoma Power is spelled out in the Letter of Agreement between the Customer and Tacoma Power. 

Will I get power overhead or underground?

Construction in denser urban areas generally necessitate undergrounding of services. Depending on the existing facilities and aerial conflicts, an overhead connection may be possible.  

Are Building Permits and Electrical Permits the same thing?

The City of Tacoma Planning and Development Services is separate from Tacoma Power’s Electrical Permits and New Services Engineering. Plans will need to be submitted to each separately.  

What is the process for getting new service to my home?

Submitting a New Service application is the first step. The design is determined by the type of service and facilities available at the property.