Lexington County, SC Building Safety: Electrical Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing code
- National Electrical Code (NFPA 70)
- Permit required for
- Install, alter, replace electrical systems
- Issuing office
- Building official, Lexington County
- Unpermitted work
- Added investigation fee applies
Summary
Lexington County requires a permit before any electrical system is installed, altered, or replaced, under the adopted National Electrical Code.
Any owner, contractor, or authorized agent who intends to... erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 20).
Full Breakdown
County code makes it unlawful to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical system without first applying to the building official and obtaining a permit. The county has adopted the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) to govern how electrical systems, equipment, fixtures, and appurtenances are installed. A short exemption list covers minor work like reinstalling attachment-plug receptacles, replacing same-capacity branch circuit breakers, and low-voltage wiring under 25 volts/50 watts: everything else needs a permit and inspection before it's covered or energized.
Violations & Fines
Starting electrical work without a permit triggers an added investigation fee on top of the standard permit fee, set by county council's fee schedule, and the work must still pass rough-in and final inspection (including GFCI/AFCI testing) before power is connected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lexington County require a permit for electrical work?
What electrical code does Lexington County use?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lexington County
Compare Lexington County to another location·View the South Carolina building safety overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.