This Chapter shall be known as the Electrical Code of the City of Tacoma or alternatively the Tacoma Electrical Code.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
The purpose of this Code is the practical safeguarding of persons and property from electrical hazards arising from the use of electricity. This Code contains provisions that are considered necessary for safety. Compliance with this chapter and proper maintenance will result in an installation that is reasonably free from hazard, but not necessarily the most efficient, convenient, or adequate for good service or future expansion of electrical use. Additional guidance for efficient and convenient future expansion of electrical use and systems is found in the National Electric Code (“NEC”).
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all electrical conductors and equipment installed, used, rented, offered for sale, or distributed for use in areas served by the City, by and through its Department of Public Utilities, Light Division, and its franchised entities, except as shown in Article 90.2(B) of the 2020 Edition of the NEC and as such exemptions for installations under the exclusive control of an electric utility may be identified in future published editions of the NEC.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; Ord. 28689 Ex. A, 2020-09-01)
A.
RCW and WAC adoption and incorporation by reference. Except as otherwise specified in this chapter, the City hereby adopts and incorporates into this chapter, the Tacoma Electrical Code, those provisions of the Revised Code of Washington (“RCW”) contained in Chapter 19.28, and the Washington Administrative Code (“WAC”), Chapter 296-46B, that relate to electrical installations including, but not limited to, methods of construction, repair, maintenance, use of materials, and approval of such installations intended to insure the safety of life and property.
B.
NEC adoption. Except as otherwise stated herein the City hereby adopts and incorporates into this chapter, the Tacoma Electrical Code, the provisions of the then current edition of the NEC in its entirety. Enforcement of the most current edition of the NEC shall begin June 1st of the year in which the latest edition is published.
C.
In the event any NEC, RCW or WAC provision adopted pursuant to this section is hereafter amended, said amended provision shall be deemed adopted and incorporated into this chapter as of the effective date of such amendment unless the amended provision establishes standards of electrical installations that are not equal to, higher, or better than that required by any other NEC, RCW or WAC provision then in effect. It is the intent of this section that, except as otherwise expressly required or provided under this chapter, the highest standard of electrical installations specified in the NEC, RCW and/or WAC is adopted and shall be enforced per the Tacoma Electrical Code.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; Ord. 28689 Ex. A, 2020-09-01)
A.
All electrical installations shall be in conformity with the provisions of this Code and with approved electrical standards for safety to life and property. Where no specific standards are prescribed by this Code, conformity with the requirements or rules set forth in the current edition of the NEC, as amended by the WAC, shall be prima facie evidence of conformity with approved standards for safety to life and property. If any requirements or rules in this chapter are found to be not at an equal, higher, or better standard of materials, devices, appliances, and equipment than of those of the WAC, the requirements of the WAC will prevail. The current edition of the NEC shall mean the current edition of the NEC, as adopted by the City in Section 12.06A.035.
B.
Additional City requirements applicable to the provisions of this Code are stated in the:
1.
Tacoma Power Customer Service Policies, as promulgated or revised from time to time, on file with the Clerk of the Public Utility Board,
2.
Tacoma Power Electric Service Handbook, as the same may be amended from time to time by the Light Division Superintendent or his/her designee, on file with Tacoma Power’s Electrical Inspection Office, and
3.
Tacoma Power Transmission and Distribution Construction Standards, as the same may be amended from time to time by the Light Division Superintendent or his/her designee, on file with Tacoma Power’s Electrical Inspection Office.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this chapter is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this chapter. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this chapter and each section, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase be declared unconstitutional.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
The Chief Electrical Inspector of the Light Division of the Department of Public Utilities, hereinafter called the Chief Electrical Inspector, shall be responsible for the enforcement of this chapter.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
means the structure, of any type or designation, at which work under the Electrical Permit will be performed and which is located at the Premises identified by site address on the application for the Permit.
means the City of Tacoma, Department of Public Utilities, Light Division, doing business as Tacoma Power.
means this chapter of the Tacoma Municipal Code.
means the person, firm, or corporation performing the installation of electrical work pursuant to an Electrical Permit and licensed by the State of Washington. Also referred to herein as electrical contractor.
means the office within Tacoma Power charged with administration and enforcement of this Code under the immediate supervision of the Chief Electrical Inspector.
means a fully paid, and neither expired nor terminated permit issued by Tacoma Power.
means moving furnishings, material, merchandise, or persons into a Building or Premises.
means the legal owner of the Premises on which electrical work is installed or is to be installed.
means the person or entity that applies for and is issued an Electrical Permit. The Permit Holder shall be responsible for full compliance with the requirements of this chapter. When the Permit Holder is not the Owner of the Premises identified in the Permit application, but performs electrical work at the Premises for such Owner, the Permit Holder shall be deemed to be the authorized agent of the Owner for purposes of enforcement of this chapter and, therefore, such Owner shall be responsible for the acts or omissions of the Permit Holder including, but not limited to, correction of Code violations and the payment of fees or penalties arising under the Permit.
means real property and all Buildings and other improvements located thereon.
means the point where the customer’s service conductors are connected to Tacoma Power’s service utility conductors.
means a written notice posted by the electrical inspector ordering the electrical work to be suspended until the electrical inspector removes the notice.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
It shall be the duty of the Chief Electrical Inspector to see that the provisions of this chapter are enforced. The Chief Electrical Inspector shall, upon submission of a permit request, issue Permits for the installation or alteration of electrical wiring, devices, appliances, and equipment, and shall make inspections of electrical installations as provided in this chapter. The Chief Electrical Inspector may delegate appropriate inspection and enforcement duties prescribed by this chapter to electrical inspectors, assistants, and other persons duly qualified and regularly employed by the City.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; Ord. 28995 Ex. B, 2024-12-03)
Any electrical work for which a Permit was obtained before the date on which this chapter becomes effective may be installed and completed in accordance with the laws and regulations which were in effect at the time of issuance of any such Permit.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
A.
Rough-in wiring or installation of electrical equipment not listed for use in wet locations shall only be installed in a structure or area of a structure that is completely free of exposure to the elements.
B.
Requests for inspection must be made by the Permit Holder that installed electrical equipment no later than three business days after completion of the electrical/telecommunication installation or one business day after any part of the installation has been energized, whichever occurs first.
C.
Electrical wiring shall not be covered or concealed until such wiring has been approved by Tacoma Power’s Electrical Inspection Office. Where an electrical installation is covered or concealed before approval, it shall be exposed for inspection. The City shall bear no liability for damages or costs resulting from exposing the electrical installation.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
A.
The Chief Electrical Inspector is hereby empowered to inspect all existing wiring, appliances, devices, and equipment coming within the scope of this chapter. When the installation of any such wiring, appliance, device, or equipment is determined to be in a dangerous or unsafe condition, the person, firm, or corporation owning, using, or operating the same shall be notified and shall make the necessary repairs or changes required to place such wiring, appliances, devices, or equipment in a safe condition, and have such work completed within 48 hours after notification thereof, or within such further reasonable time as may be allowed by Tacoma Power upon request.
B.
The Chief Electrical Inspector is hereby empowered to disconnect or order the discontinuance of electrical service to such conductors or apparatus found to be in a dangerous or unsafe condition, or to have been installed without a Permit. He or she shall thereupon attach a notice, which states that such conductors or apparatus have been disconnected due to violation of the provisions of this chapter. It shall be unlawful to remove a notice of disconnect or to reconnect electrical equipment to an electrical power source without authorization from the Chief Electrical Inspector. Any person removing the notice, or reconnecting the equipment or wiring before approval to do so has been given, will be subject to the penalties outlined in this chapter.
C.
Abandoned conductors, conduits, and electrical equipment shall be removed from structures unless it is de energized, supported, capped, and enclosed or terminated by an acceptable method and tagged “For Future Use” at every accessible location.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
A.
Final inspections are required on all Buildings before occupancy. Each unit of a multiple occupancy Building or complex must have a separate final electrical inspection approval before it is occupied. The Permit Holder is required to request a final inspection at the time the electrical installation is completed. A Permit Holder not complying with the requirements of this section shall be subject to the penalties outlined in this chapter.
B.
Final approval will not be given until all fees owed on the project or Permit(s) are paid. When all fees are paid, and the electrical installation is complete and in compliance with this chapter the electrical inspector will sign and/or post a final inspection approval notice. Building permits requiring an electrical inspector’s signed approval shall be posted in a conspicuous location.
C.
The Chief Electrical Inspector is hereby authorized to disconnect any electrical installation or equipment which has been connected before the approval for service has been given. He or she shall thereupon attach a notice which shall state that the wiring or apparatus has been disconnected due to violation of the provisions of this chapter. Any person removing the notice, or reconnecting the equipment or wiring before approval to do so has been given, will be subject to the penalties outlined in this chapter.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
Limited use of electricity for emergency or construction purposes may be granted. An Electrical Permit must be purchased and inspection approval must be given before energizing the electrical installation, except as provided in this chapter. Emergency installations shall be limited to a 30-day period. Temporary wiring for construction use is limited to the duration of construction. All use of electricity shall be metered.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
(Metering installations and labeling. Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; repealed by Ord. 28846 Ex. A, 2022-11-22)
All new or altered services, feeders, circuits, circuit extensions, and installations must meet requirements of this chapter.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
Overhead service drop clearances are the Owner’s responsibility. These clearances must be free of any vegetation obstructions as further specified in the Tacoma Power Electric Service Handbook.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
It shall be unlawful for any person to alter in any way any electrical wiring, or to permit such electrical wiring to be altered, unless done in conformity with the provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
A variance from the electrical installation requirements of this chapter may be granted by the Chief Electrical Inspector when it is assured that equivalent objectives can be achieved by establishing and maintaining effective safety. The variance request must be submitted by the Permit Holder or designer, using an electronic form located on Tacoma Power’s Electrical Inspection website. A variance which has been granted shall be for a specific site and time and will not be considered as a precedent for other installations. All variances must be granted in writing.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; Ord. 28995 Ex. B, 2024-12-03)
In addition to the requirements of WAC 296 46B-010, any structure which has been moved shall have its service upgraded to meet the requirements of this chapter and the NEC. Kitchen, bath, and laundry circuits shall comply with the NEC. AFCI protection, in compliance with the NEC, will be required, on all bedroom circuits.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
Fusing and equipment protection shall be in compliance with NEC Article 240.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
A Tacoma Power electrical inspector may answer relevant questions concerning interpretation or application of adopted regulations and rules outlined in this Code. No electrical inspector shall lay out work or act in the capacity of an electrical installation consultant.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
A Tacoma Power electrical inspector shall have the right to enter any and all Buildings and Premises which contain electrical wiring or apparatus, at any reasonable hour, for the purpose of inspecting or testing the installation of electrical wiring, electrical devices, and/or electric materials to determine Code compliance. Consent to such entry and inspection is a condition of continued electrical service.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
This chapter shall not be construed to alter the responsibility or liability of any person owning, designing, operating, controlling, or installing any electrical wires, appliances, apparatus, construction, or equipment for damages to persons or property caused by a defect therein, nor shall the City, or any employee or agent thereof, be held as assuming any such liability by reason of the inspection or other examination authorized herein or the notice of approval issued by the electrical inspector.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
An Electrical Permit shall be applied for and purchased before electrical equipment may be installed, altered, or repaired. An Electrical Permit is required for the installation, alteration, or maintenance of all electrical systems or equipment, including, but not limited to, when removal of a Tacoma Power owned electric meter is necessary to perform any electrical work.
Exceptions:
A.
Like-in-kind replacement of a contactor, relay, timer, starter, electronic circuit board, or similar control component, household appliance, circuit breaker, fuse, residential luminaire, lamp, snap switch, dimmer, receptacle outlet, thermostat, heating element, luminaire ballast with an exact same ballast, component(s) of electric signs, outline lighting, skeleton lighting or skeleton neon tubing where the electrical system is not modified, 10 horsepower or smaller motor;
B.
Induction detection loops described in WAC 296-46B-300(2) and used to control gate access devices;
C.
Heat cable repair; and
D.
Embedding pre-manufactured heat mats in tile grout where the mat is listed by an approved testing laboratory and comes from the manufacturer with pre-connected lead-in conductors. All listing marks and lead-in conductor labels must be left intact and visible for evaluation and inspection by the installing electrician and the electrical inspector.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
A.
An Electrical Permit submitted by an electrical contractor or its representative shall serve as a certification by the electrical contractor, made under penalty of perjury, that said Contractor is the duly authorized agent of the Premises Owner where the electrical work is to be performed.
B.
Electrical Permits shall expire one year after the date of issue or one year after the most recent inspection, whichever is later. The re-issuance of a Permit, if granted, may require additional fees.
C.
The scheduling and timing of inspections shall be according to provisions set forth in the Tacoma Power Electric Service Handbook.
D.
The Permit Holder is responsible for providing or arranging access to the work to be inspected.
E.
The inspection site address shall be clearly visible from the street.
F.
Electrical Code violations identified by the electrical inspector shall be posted at the work location. Violations shall be corrected within 15 days of notification unless a written request for extension is granted by the Chief Electrical Inspector.
G.
Electrical Permits shall be required for each Building at which electrical work will be performed.
H.
Electrical Permits are transferable, provided the original scope of work for the Permit has not changed and there has been no electrical work or inspection activity. The Permit transferee must present a statement and authorizing signature of approval from the Permit transferor. The transfer must be submitted within one year of the original Permit issuance.
I.
Electrical permits may be canceled by the permit holder. Upon such cancellation, Permit Holder shall be refunded the Electrical Permit fee prorated based on prior inspection activity, and less an administrative process fee. Permits closed after one year of inactivity will not be refunded. Payments may be applied to another electrical permit at the discretion of the Chief Electrical Inspector. Tacoma Power may cancel an Electrical Permit if it determines the Permit Holder is not qualified to perform the Permitted work.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; Ord. 28995 Ex. B, 2024-12-03)
A.
Electrical permits to perform electrical work on a new or existing Building owned by the Permit applicant and not intended for rent, sale, or lease may be issued to the applicant, provided that:
1.
The applicant may be required to provide documentation that they are the Owner of the Building where electrical work is to be performed, such as a copy of a deed, along with evidence of identity;
2.
The applicant affirms as part of the permit submittal that the Building where the electrical work is to be performed is not for rent, sale, or lease at the time of Permit submittal and that they do not intend to rent, sell or lease all or any part of the Building for at least twenty-four months after the final electrical inspection;
3.
If the Building where the electrical work is to be performed is used as a residence by any person other than the applicant at the time of Permit submittal, or will be so used at any time during the twenty-four months following final electrical inspection, the applicant further affirms their residence at such Building and their intent to reside therein for at least two years after final inspection; and
4.
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.
B.
If it is apparent from the character of electrical work performed by or with the knowledge of the Owner, whether performed prior to or after Permit issuance, that the Owner and/or person assisting the Owner are not qualified to do the work under the Permit applied for or issued, an electrical inspector may require the work that is in violation of this chapter be changed, altered, or repaired by a licensed electrical contractor.
C.
Electrical permits to perform electrical work on a new or existing Building owned by a nonprofit corporation and intended for sale may be issued a Permit if the following conditions are met:
1.
An appropriately certified electrician or a properly supervised certified electrical trainee is performing the installation, repair, or maintenance of wires and equipment for a nonprofit corporation that holds a current tax-exempt status as provided under 26 U.S.C. § 501(c)(3);
2.
The certified electrician or certified electrical trainee is not compensated for the electrical work;
3.
The value of the electrical work does not exceed $30,000; and
4.
The nonprofit corporation has and maintains ownership of the land (not including improvements) on which the Building is sited. The nonprofit applicant may be required to provide documentation, such as a copy of deed and evidence of identity, that they are the Owner of the land.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; Ord. 28846 Ex. A, 2022-11-22; Ord. 28995 Ex. B, 2024-12-03; Ord. 29109, 2026-06-16)
A.
A completed plan review application shall be submitted with information required to complete the review process including, but not limited to, documentation specified in the Plan Review Application Instructions. Submitted plans for projects identified in subsection (B)(1) and (2) of this Section shall be in accordance with WAC 296 46B 900 and must be stamped by a Professional Electrical Engineer registered with the State of Washington.
B.
Electrical Permit applicants are required to submit electrical plans, load calculations, and specifications for work to be performed on:
1.
Schools, hospitals, institutions, and other projects as specified in the WAC;
2.
All systems that have emergency generators (NEC Articles 517, 700, 701);
3.
Downtown network services and feeders over 200 amps;
4.
Systems operating over 600 volts;
5.
Commercial and industrial services greater than 400 amps;
6.
Residential services and feeders over 400 amps;
C.
Electrical plans must be submitted to Tacoma Power’s Electrical Inspection Office for review, giving sufficient time to complete the review prior to beginning electrical construction. A Tacoma Power approved set of drawings must be on the job site for the electrical inspector’s use. No inspection will be performed unless the approved plans are on the job site or special written permission is granted by the Chief Electrical Inspector or his designee. Where inspections are performed by Tacoma Power prior to plan approval, electrical materials or equipment may be required to be re-installed to meet the requirements of this chapter once plan review is complete. Electrical service will not be provided unless approved plans are on site and the electrical service equipment installation is approved.
D.
Plan review fees are included in the commercial Permit fees. When no Permit has been purchased and the project has been canceled, or excessive time is required to review plans submitted with incomplete information or extensive errors, a fee of $80 per hour will be charged.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; Ord. 28689 Ex. A, 2020-09-01; Ord. 28995 Ex. B, 2024-12-03)
Current standard fees for connecting electrical services to the Tacoma Power system, as well as the Permit fees and any penalties previously assessed, must be paid before an Electrical Permit will be issued. The Permit applicant is responsible to arrange for payment. Permit applications for which insufficient or no payment has been received will not be issued. Unpaid Permit submittals will be discarded by Tacoma Power if payment has not been received within 10 business days of receipt of application. Unless otherwise noted, when multiple inspections are required, the Permit fee shall not be less than $77 per 1/2 hour of inspection time. No inspection will be performed until the Permit application process is completed. Current standard fees for Electrical Permits and inspections by Tacoma Power are as follows:
A.
Residential.
1.
Table A. Single-family dwelling and mobile home services, service changes, and service upgrades, fees are set forth in Table A below, and include branch circuit wiring from the service(s) or feeder(s). All wiring by the same Permit Holder on single family dwellings of 400 amps/4000 sq. ft. or less is included under the fees from Table A unless otherwise noted below.
TABLE A | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Service/Feeder Ampacity and Square Footage | Permit Fees | ||
Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 | |
Overhead Service - up to 2 inspections | Underground to Pole and Underground Service with underground wiring - up to 4 inspections | Feeder Only up to 2 inspections | |
1-200A and up to 2500 sq. ft. | $153 | $306 | $125 |
Up to 400A or up to 4000 sq. ft. | $230 | $382 | $140 |
Over 400A or over 4000 sq. ft. | Use TABLE B | ||
2.
Branch circuit alterations and repairs. The fee for 1 to 4 new circuits, circuit extensions, or alterations where the service or feeder is not modified, increased, relocated, or replaced: $89. Use Table A if service or feeder work is included. Each additional circuit: $10. Fee includes two inspections.
3.
Service alterations and repairs. Minor alterations and repairs to an electrical service or PV system, including, but not limited to, the repair or replacement of one of the following: service panel, service mast, service entrance conductors, weather head, service attachment bracket, meter socket, main breaker, or utility disconnect: $77. If more than one item listed above is altered or replaced: $153. Fee includes one inspection.
4.
Hardwired low voltage. Single-family Dwellings—Fees for low voltage control panels and devices, such as fire alarm systems, data systems, intrusion alarms, HVAC systems, thermostats, and similar systems: $77. Fee includes one inspection.
5.
Temporary services 1-200 amps single phase: $77. Fee includes one inspection.
Temporary services over 200 amps or three phase and systems with feeders: Table B.
Temporary services are permitted for use up to 90 days or the duration of a permitted construction project.
6.
Residential swimming pool (In addition to any other fees listed): $230. Fee includes three inspections.
7.
Generator transfer panel and equipment: $105. Fee includes one inspection.
8.
PV systems: $153. Fee includes two inspections.
B.
Commercial and industrial.
1.
Table B. The Permit fee for all commercial and industrial work, multifamily dwelling installations, and single family dwellings exceeding 400 amps or 4000 square feet shall be derived from Table B. Proof of electrical work value must be submitted at the time of application. Proof may be established by presenting a signed contract or a priced itemization of the work to be performed. The electrical work value shall be the reasonably documented value of all labor, material, fittings, apparatus, and the like, whether actually paid for or not, supplied by the Permit Holder and/or installed by the Permit Holder as a part of, or in connection with, a complete electrical system, but which does not include the cost of utilizing equipment connected to the electrical system. If a signed contract or other substantial proof of value is not submitted at the time of Permit application, the value may be established by Tacoma Power’s Electrical Inspection Office using modern construction cost-estimating techniques. If the reported work value is determined by Tacoma Power’s electrical inspection office to be significantly less than what was reported at the time the Permit was purchased, the Permit fee amount will be increased to reflect the corrected actual value and a charge for the time to determine such value will be assessed to the Permit fee. A fee adjustment shall be made for all change orders and field changes that increase the value. All fees must be paid before final electrical inspection approval of the project.
TABLE B | |
|---|---|
Value of Electrical Construction | Permit Fees |
$0 - $1,000 | $133 for the first $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
$1,001 - $5,000 | $133 for the first $1,000 plus $5.35 for each additional $100 or fraction thereof. |
$5,001 - $50,000 | $347 for the first $5,000 plus $2.70 for each additional $100 or fraction thereof. |
$50,001 - $100,000 | $1,562 for the first $50,000 plus $2 for each additional $100 or fraction thereof. |
$100,001 - $250,000 | $2,562 for the first $100,000 plus $12 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
$250,001 - $500,000 | $4,362 for the first $250,000 plus $10.70 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
$500,001 - $750,000 | $7,037 for the first $500,000 plus $9.40 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
$750,001 - $1,000,000 | $9,387 for the first $750,000 plus $8 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
$1,000,001 - $2,000,000 | $11,387 for the first $1,000,000 plus $7.35 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
$2,000,001 - $3,000,000 | $18,737 for the first $2,000,000 plus $6.65 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
$3,000,001 - $4,000,000 | $25,387 for the first $3,000,000 plus $6 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
$4,000,001 - $5,000,000 | $31,387 for the first $4,000,000 plus $5.35 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
$5,000,001 - $50,000,000 | $36,737 for the first $5,000,000 plus $4.65 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
$50,000,001 - $100,000,000 | $245,987 for the first $50,000,000 plus $4 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
$100,000,001 and up | $445,987 for the first $100,000,000 plus $3.35 for each additional $1,000 or fraction thereof. |
2.
Lighting retrofit projects limited to the exchange of fixtures and/or ballasts.
Minimum fee per 5,000 sq. ft. of Building: $153.
Each additional 1,000 sq. ft. or fraction of: $16.
3.
Traffic signals. Traffic signal and street lighting service only.
(If street lighting is inspected by authorized cities or WSDOT): $153.
All others: Table B.
4.
Signs.
Each sign or first field installed neon transformer: $77.
Each additional sign or field installed neon transformer: $28.
Fee includes one inspection.
5.
Carnival, circus, fair, trade shows, or similar events.
First ten of rides, generators, concessions, gaming shows, displays, or booths: $181.
Each additional: $10.
C.
Hardwired low voltage – Commercial/Industrial. Fees for low voltage control panels and devices, such as fire alarm systems, data systems, intrusion alarms, HVAC systems, thermostats, communication systems, emergency control systems, and similar systems are as follows:
Minimum fee per 10,000 sq. ft. of Building: $153.
Each additional 1,000 sq. ft. or fraction of: $16.
D.
Overtime. Overtime inspections including, but not limited to, call outs, weekend inspections, and after hours work must be scheduled with Tacoma Power’s Electrical Inspection Office a minimum of three business days in advance. In addition to the regular Permit fee, a fee for an overtime inspection is required as follows:
1.
Unscheduled. Outside of an electrical inspector’s regular working hours, the minimum fee for an inspection shall be $660 for the first two hours, portal to portal, plus $220 for each hour thereafter. The fee must be paid the next business day.
2.
Scheduled. Outside of an electrical inspector’s regular working hours, the minimum fee for an inspection shall be $440 for the first two hours, portal to portal, plus $220 for each hour thereafter. The fee of $440 must be paid 48 hours in advance of the scheduled inspection, and any remaining fee must be paid the next business day.
3.
Requested inspections that extend beyond the electrical inspector’s regular working hours shall be at the minimum rate of $220 per hour, portal to portal.
E.
Annual permit. Pursuant to section 12.06A.350, annual Permits are available to commercial and industrial customers employing their own electrical maintenance staff. An annual Permit may be purchased in lieu of individual Permits for maintenance on each job performed. Annual Permits may be purchased by an electrical contractor to perform maintenance work at a commercial and industrial location if, at the time of application, a valid copy of the electrical contractor’s yearly maintenance contract with the customer is submitted to Tacoma Power and the term and nature of work under such contract is consistent, as determined in the sole discretion of Tacoma Power, with the term and purpose of the annual Permit. Applications for annual Permits submitted without proof of required employment status or a valid maintenance contract will not be accepted. Work performed under an annual Permit is limited to the installation of not more than two new feeders or circuits rated 100 amps or less, and the maintenance, repair, retrofit, or replacement of conductors and equipment. Annual Permits do not include the installation of new, exchanged, or upgraded service equipment, electrical work installed as part of new or added square footage, facility expansion, remodel, or where, except as noted above, load is increased. The annual Permit fee is calculated per Table C.
TABLE C | |
|---|---|
Number of one-hour Inspection units | Fee |
12 | $1,833 |
13-24 | $3,666 |
25-36 | $5,499 |
37-52 | $7,942 |
F.
Miscellaneous fees.
1.
Wrong meter address or location. A Permit is required to correct or inspect incorrect meter addressing by the Owner or Owner’s agent: $77 per 1/2 hour. Overtime rates may apply.
2.
Miscellaneous inspection (other): $77 per 1/2 hour.
3.
Variance. A processing fee for granting an electrical installation as outlined in Section 12.06A.155 of this chapter: $177.
4.
Required inspection on services off for one year or more: $77. Fee includes one inspection.
An additional Permit, fees, and inspections may be required if electrical deficiencies exist on the Premises. |
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; Ord. 28689 Ex. A, 2020-09-01; Ord. 28846 Ex. A, 2022-11-22; Ord. 28995 Ex. B, 2024-12-03; Ord. 29026 Ex. A, 2025-03-25)
The following-described penalties may be assessed, or the described fee adjustments may be determined appropriate, by order of the Chief Electrical Inspector:
A.
Trip fee (per trip) when permit holder notifies Electrical Inspections Office that work is ready for inspection when it is not: $77.
B.
The Permit Holder gives an incorrect inspection site address: $77.
C.
Inspections required as a result of carelessness, neglect, faulty workmanship, or materials: $77.
D.
Failing to complete corrections within 15 days as required by this chapter: $77.
E.
Removal of Stop Work Order: $77.
F.
Tampering with Stop Work Order penalty fee: $77.
G.
Occupying a Building, living unit, or business space without final electrical approval: $348.
H.
Work performed without a Permit: 4X regular Permit fee. This provision does not pertain to emergency work where a permit is purchased the next business day.
I.
Failure to provide or arrange access for requested inspection: $77.
J.
Late charge for nonpayment of penalty fees: $32.
K.
Permit cancellation administrative process fee: $77.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; Ord. 28846 Ex. A, 2022-11-22; Ord. 28995 Ex. B, 2024-12-03; Ord. 29026 Ex. A, 2025-03-25)
Penalty and Permit adjustment fees are due at the time of assessment unless the assessed party makes an appeal to the Chief Electrical Inspector within 15 business days pursuant to Section 12.06A.360. If payment or appeal is not made within the 15 days, an additional $32 late fee will be assessed and inspection activity will be stopped until the fee and late charges are paid.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; Ord. 29026 Ex. A, 2025-03-25)
All clearances per the State of Washington rules contained in WAC 296-155-428 must be maintained while working around overhead electrical lines.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
A.
Subject to subsections B and C, and except as otherwise provided in RCW 19.28.091 or in section 12.06A.230, no person or entity shall in any manner undertake to perform any electrical work involving the installation, maintenance, alteration, or repair of any electrical wiring, devices, appliances, or equipment for which a Permit is required by this chapter unless such person or entity has an unrevoked, unsuspended, and unexpired electrical contractors license issued by the State of Washington.
B.
Employers with employee(s) that perform electrical work are exempt from the license requirements of this section, provided that:
C.
Employees performing electrical work on the Premises or other property of their employer are exempt from the license requirements of this section, provided that:
D.
A licensed electrical contractor will be required to perform any electrical work for, or on behalf of, any person or entity that does not satisfy the licensing requirements of this section. If it is apparent from the character of the work performed that the person or entity performing work under any exemption in this section is not qualified to do the work under the Permit issued, or that the work is otherwise in violation of this chapter, an electrical inspector may require the work to be changed, altered, or repaired by a licensed electrical contractor.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
A.
Any decision of an electrical inspector regarding the requirements of, or fees and penalties imposed under this chapter, may be appealed in writing to the Chief Electrical Inspector. The appeal must be made within 15 business days of the initial decision. The Chief Electrical Inspector shall respond in writing within ten business days.
B.
Any decision of the Chief Electrical Inspector may be appealed to the Light Division Superintendent or his/her designee. The appeal must be made in writing and within ten business days of the Chief Electrical Inspector’s decision. The Light Division Superintendent or his/her designee shall make a decision on the appeal request within a reasonable time, which decision shall be in writing. Except for criminal and civil penalties imposed pursuant to section 12.06A.400 of this chapter, the written decision of the Light Division Superintendent or his/her designee is final and conclusive unless appropriate legal action is filed with the Pierce County Superior Court within 30 days of the issuance of said decision.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
The Director of Utilities may make such rules and regulations governing the operation of this chapter as are not inconsistent with its provisions. The Director may grant reasonable minor adjustments in cases where the terms of this chapter place an injustice upon a customer if after written evidence has been presented to the Director it is shown that irregular circumstances of the customer’s load, service and/or other conditions warrant such adjustment.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)
A.
An entire service upgrade shall not be required when only replacing a meter base, or mast, or panel, unless the load requirement is greater than the rating of the existing service and/or specific electrical safety concerns associated with said equipment are detected.
B.
Service entrance conductors for commercial occupancies shall have an ampacity not less than the rating of the service equipment they supply. For multiple-dwelling occupancies, the minimum service conductor ampacity shall not be less than the calculated service load.
C.
Commissioning of all new Emergency Legally Required Standby, and/or Health Care systems fed by a 150 kw or larger generator shall be in compliance with NEC Sections 700, 701 and 517, respectively. A copy of the commissioning report shall be presented to the electrical inspector prior to the final electrical inspection.
D.
Customer-owned systems that are metered at 12.5 kV or higher, known as primary metered systems, shall be installed as outlined in NEC 215.2(B)(3) and Tacoma Power’s Transmission & Distribution Construction Standards. Such systems must be designed and certified by a Washington State Registered Electrical Engineer and reviewed by Tacoma Power’s Electrical Inspection Office. These systems must be tested per manufacturers’ published instructions and certified as free of short circuits and ground faults prior to approval for energizing.
E.
Each newly constructed or remodeled dwelling unit, as defined in NEC 100, shall be independently metered by Tacoma Power.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01; Ord. 28689 Ex. A, 2020-09-01; Ord. 28846 Ex. A, 2022-11-22)
A.
Any person, firm, or corporation that violates, disobeys, neglects, or refuses to comply with or resists or opposes the enforcement of any of the provisions of this chapter, or who persists in Occupying any building or structure, and/or maintaining operation of any equipment or appliances, in which the electrical wiring has been declared to be in violation of this chapter, after having been notified of such violation, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof, shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed $1,000, together with the cost of prosecution, or by imprisonment of not more than 90 days, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each day such violation, disobedience, neglect, or refusal continues after notification of violation shall be deemed a separate offense and shall be subject to the penalty of this section. Such person, firm, or corporation shall be deemed to have been duly notified by posting of notification on the premises, equipment, or appliances by the electrical inspector or by the sealing out of the service, of circuits, of equipment, and/or of appliances by the electrical inspector, or by notification in writing by the electrical inspector, mailed to the Owner and/or occupant at the Premises involved.
B.
At the option of the City, in lieu of proceeding with criminal sanctions, violations of this chapter may result in a civil penalty of up to $1,000 for each violation. A civil penalty may be imposed by written notice issued by the Chief Electrical Inspector or his or her designated assistant. The civil penalty shall be paid prior to final approval of the premises involved. Appeals of the civil penalty may be made by a party or firm adversely affected by filing a notice of appeal with the City Hearing Examiner within ten days of receipt of the notice of civil penalty. The decision of the Hearing Examiner is final and conclusive, and is only subject to review by the Pierce County Superior Court by filing appropriate legal action within 30 days of the issuance of the Hearing Examiner's final decision. If such fine or civil penalty remains unpaid more than 60 days after said amount has been imposed and all appeals thereof have been exhausted, or the time has expired for an appeal, then said amount may be transferred to the electric utility bill account for said person or firm, and the remedies for collection for electric utility shall apply.
(Ord. 28443 Ex. A, 2017-08-01)