Middleton, WI Building Safety: Electrical Permits (2026)

Chapter 12 adopts the Wisconsin Administrative Code SPS 316 Electrical Code by reference, effective March 1, 2009, including later amendments, exclusive of the state's own penalty and enforcement provisions, which the City replaces with its own (Section 12.03). No one may start erecting, constructing, altering, or changing any electrical installation or wiring, aside from minor repairs like replacing a broken socket or switch, without first obtaining a City permit, and no permit issues unless the applicant proves the work will be done by an electrician licensed by the State of Wisconsin (Section 12.10(1)-(2)).

Institutions or plants with a licensed employee or contractor on staff may instead take out a single annual permit covering routine repairs, with new installations that increase electrical load still requiring a separate permit (Section 12.10(3)-(4)). In an emergency threatening life, health, or property, work may start immediately if the permit is obtained the next business day (Section 12.10(6)). The base permit fee is $50 for residential work and $100 for commercial work, with additional per-square-foot and per-amp charges for new service and feeders. Before any building can be energized, the Electrical Inspector must issue a certificate of inspection within 48 hours of a completion notice, confirming the wiring is safe under the City, state, and Department of Commerce standards, and the utility may not connect service without that certificate (Section 12.12).