Permits
Who issues your electrical permit in Washington
Three different offices issue electrical permits around Puget Sound. Which one inspects your job depends on your address.
Cities with their own electrical permits
L&I lists the cities that run their own electrical permits and inspections. Around here the list includes Seattle, Bellevue, Federal Way, Kirkland, Lacey, Olympia, Redmond, Renton and Tukwila. Check L&I's list for the full set.
Tacoma Power's area
Tacoma Power issues permits and inspects in its service area: Tacoma, Fircrest, University Place, Fife, parts of Steilacoom, Lakewood, and unincorporated Pierce County as far south as Roy. (L&I) Tacoma Power says most electrical work needs a permit before it begins. Inspections: 253-502-8277. (Tacoma Power)
Everywhere else: L&I
If your city is not on the list and you are outside Tacoma Power's area, L&I issues the permit and sends the inspector. (L&I electrical permits)
What the permit gets you
- An inspection is a second set of eyes on work you cannot see once the walls close.
- Ask the electrician which office they will file with. A licensed contractor should know without looking it up.
- L&I lists "asks you to get the permit" as a contractor red flag. (L&I)
Related
See how to hire an emergency electrician and what to do when a breaker keeps tripping.
Sources
We read each source on October 17, 2026. Rules and prices change, so check the linked page before you rely on a number.
Written by the Puget Sound Emergency Electricians team. We list businesses; we do not employ, bond or insure them. Spot a mistake? Use the claim page to tell us.