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What should I know about permits and codes?
Permits
Before you start any electrical installation, you should check to see if a permit is required. Most of the time, the governmental body that requires a permit is the city that you live in. However, townships and county governments frequently require permits if you do not live in a city.
Not getting the required permit can come back to haunt you. Frequently, the permit fee is doubled or tripled if you are caught doing work without a permit. The lack of a permit could be caught many years after the work is completed such as when you try to sell your house.
Permit requirements vary considerably from place to place. Some areas require a permit for all new work. Generally, maintenance type electrical work does not require a permit if the work is limited to minor repair or replacement of existing defective or worn out equipment such as switches, receptacles & light fixtures.
When a permit is obtained and work is inspected, you have the peace of mind the work was done and material installed properly.
Codes
The National Electrical Code is almost always the code that will be enforced. Ask your local inspector (also known as the Authority Having Jurisdiction) which edition is being used (probably one of the following- 2004, 2005, 2006). Some areas modify the code to suit local conditions, so you should also ask if the AHJ has any legally adopted additions or deletions to the code.
On the message boards, most of the code replies given are based on the NEC. Sometimes, the replies are based on local code amendments or practices but that may not be made clear in the post. Once in awhile, there may be a disagreement about the meaning of the NEC is and how it is applied to a particular situation. When this happens, consult your AHJ to find out what the interpretation in your area is.
When in doubt, don’t guess, ask your inspector about code requirements. It is best to ask before starting the work in order to avoid removing noncompliant work. Preparation is everything, so do your homework here, talk to the AHJ and join the numerous folks who have successfully passed inspection after visiting this site.
Can I do my own electrical work?
In most areas qualified homeowners are allowed to do electrical work within their own residences, however the particulars vary from locale to locale. In some locations it can be as simple as obtaining an electrical permit, while others may limit the scope of work that can be performed or even require aptitude testing before a permit can be issued.
Ultimately it is the sole responsibility of the homeowner to learn about and comply with all ordinances relating to DIY work and permits. Some good sources of information would include the local building department, electrical inspector.
However, obtaining a permit does not automatically make someone qualified to do electrical work. The National Electrical Code defines a "qualified person" as one who has skills and knowledge related to the construction and operation of the electrical equipment and installations and has received safety training on the hazards involved. Jurisdictions are free to use this definition or any other and it is the responsibility of the person doing the work to learn and comply with any requirements in their local jurisdiction.
When is a Journeyman Electrian's License Required?
In Sarasota and Bradenton, a Journeyman Electrician's License is required for electrical work performed without the supervision of a Master Electrician or another Journeyman. A Journeyman may supervise other unlicensed electrical workers.
When is a Master Electrian's License Required?
A Master Electrician's License is required when an electrical contractor wishes to obtain a permit to perform electrical work.
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