Annapolis, MD Building Safety: Electrical Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issuer
- Dept. of Planning and Zoning
- Code adopted
- 2020 NEC (NFPA 70)
- Voids if unstarted
- 90 days after issuance
- Maximum duration
- 2 years from issuance
- Fine
- $200 per day
Summary
Annapolis requires a permit from the Department of Planning and Zoning before any electrical installation or work begins, and the application must be signed by a licensed master, limited, or restricted electrician working under the adopted 2020 National Electrical Code.
Except as provided otherwise in this chapter, no person shall make any installation of electrical equipment or perform any electrical work which is subject to this chapter without first obtaining a permit from the Department of Planning and Zoning. No permit shall be required to repair portable electrical equipment or lighting fixtures, or to repair or replace sockets, receptacles or snap switches, or to make other minor repairs at existing outlets, or to repair motors, or to replace motors with motors of the same horsepower rating.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 2025 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Under Annapolis City Code Chapter 17.16, no one may install electrical equipment or perform electrical work covered by the chapter without first obtaining a permit signed by a registered master electrician, master electrician limited, or restricted electrician. Minor work is exempt: repairing portable equipment or lighting fixtures, replacing sockets, receptacles or snap switches, other minor outlet repairs, and repairing or swapping a motor for one of the same horsepower. A permit voids if work doesn't start within 90 days or is abandoned for six months, tops out at two years, and can get one 120-day renewal on written justification. Permits are non-transferable, and the Director may suspend or revoke one for unsafe or unworkmanlike installation.
Violations & Fines
Performing electrical work without the required permit, or otherwise violating the Electrical Code, is a municipal infraction carrying a $200-per-day fine under § 17.16.110.A; unpermitted or nonconforming work can be ordered removed by the enforcing officer.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Official References
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