Can a homeowner do their own electrical work in Washington state?

Any professional applying for electrical permits must have a Washington State electrical contractor’s license and a Seattle business license. Property owners may do their own work when they own and occupy the property they’re working on.

What is an EL01 electrician?

A general journey level electrician (EL01) is certified to work in commercial/industrial and all specialty electrical categories. At least 8,000 hours working as an electrical trainee under the supervision of a certified journey level electrician.

Can a homeowner wire their own home?

As long as the electrical work you need to do is minor and doesn’t involve something like changing the main electrical panel, you can often legally do it yourself. However, the complexity determines whether you need to seek a permit before doing so.

What is an L&I inspection?

In general, either L&I or the city issuing the permit has the responsibility of inspecting the installation. L&I performs inspections statewide for both new and altered electrical systems in all types of installations (Chapter 19.28 RCW). See the list of cities that do their own electrical inspections.

Can a homeowner replace electrical panel in Washington state?

That’s why a permit is required for any significant electrical work. “Simple installations such replacing an outlet, switch or light in a home, if you’re the homeowner, does not require a permit,” explained Larry Vance with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.

How much does a residential electrician make in Washington state?

The average salary for an electrician in Washington is around $65,650 per year.

How much do journeyman electricians make in Washington state?

The average salary for a journeyman electrician is $41.13 per hour in Washington State and $16,063 overtime per year.

Can I wire my own garage?

Wire your unfinished garage to get the lights and outlets you need. Whether you’re rewiring or adding more wiring to an older garage, or running wires in a new garage, you have a decision to make. That means not spanning stud or joist spaces with wires.

How do I get a Washington state electrical permit?

Buy your permit by mail or in person Visit your local L&I office or mail your application: Fill out the Property Owner Electrical Work Permit Application (F500-094-000). If applying by mail, include a check or money order payable to the Department of Labor & Industries with your application.

How do I become an electrical inspector in Washington state?

All electrical inspectors appointed by the director of labor and industries shall have not less than: Four years experience as journeyperson electricians in the electrical construction trade installing and maintaining electrical wiring and equipment, or two years electrical training in a college of electrical …

Does L&I inspect all jobsites in Washington?

All other jobsites in Washington are permitted and inspected by L&I. A plan review is required for electrical installations or alterations at educational, institutional, health, or other personal care facilities within L&I’s jurisdiction. L&I inspects electrical work using the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC).

Do I need an electrical permit and inspection in Washington?

Electrical work in Washington requires a permit and inspection. However, there are a few exceptions. If you’re not sure if your work requires an electrical permit and inspection, check Chapter 296-46B-901 WAC. Electrical permits must be purchased by the electrical contractor or the property owner or homeowner who will actually be doing the work.

Are there any changes to the electrical rules for L&I?

L&I has adopted changes to the Electrical rules that increase fees by 5.79% beginning July 1, 2021. The fee increase is needed to help support operating expenses for inspections and other program public safety activities. Chapter 296-46B-906, Inspection Fees.

What is a Washington reciprocal certificate for electricians?

Washington reciprocal certificates are generally available to those electricians who obtained their Oregon general journeyman electrician (J) licenses after completing 8,000-hour Apprenticeships requiring at least 576 classroom hours of education and passing Oregon exams.