Home / Permits / Electrical work (circuits, panels)

Do you need a permit for a electrical work (circuits, panels)?

Yes. New circuits, panel changes and most new wiring need a permit in every north-suburb village, typically $75 to $300, with a rough inspection while the walls are open and a final. Swapping a light fixture or an outlet like for like is generally exempt. The inspection is what proves the work was done to code.

Typical fee: $75-$300, scaled to project value in most villages.

Why and when does a permit apply?

New circuits, panel changes, and most new wiring require permits everywhere. Swapping a light fixture or outlet like-for-like is generally exempt.

Inspections to expect

Rough (open walls) and final.

Village by village

Fees and thresholds change; a 5-minute call to the village confirms your exact case. Related guide: How Long Remodels Really Take (Week by Week)