San Ramon, CA Building Safety: Electrical Permits (2026)

San Ramon enforces electrical permit and inspection requirements through the Building Division under the California Electrical Code (CEC), which is based on the National Electrical Code 2022 with California amendments codified in Title 24 Part 3. Permits are required for virtually all new electrical work, including service upgrades and panel replacements, new branch circuits, receptacle and switch additions, installation of new lighting (including landscape and security), EV charger installations (Level 2 and higher), solar photovoltaic systems and battery storage, generator and transfer switch installations, pool and spa electrical, and HVAC electrical connections. Minor like-for-like replacements of receptacles, switches, and light fixtures by homeowners typically do not require permits, but any circuit alteration or new circuit does. Under California Business and Professions Code 7044, a homeowner may perform electrical work on their own owner-occupied single-family residence if they personally do the work and do not hire unlicensed assistants; work performed for compensation or on rental/investment properties must be done by a C-10 licensed electrical contractor. The Building Division reviews permit applications, typically requires a site plan and load calculation for service upgrades, and schedules rough-in and final inspections. Rough-in inspections occur before walls are closed and verify proper grounding, bonding, box fill, wire sizing, and device placement. Final inspections verify completed installations, GFCI/AFCI protection where required, proper labeling, and working condition. The 2022 CEC requires AFCI protection on most habitable-room circuits, GFCI protection in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, outdoors, and near water, and surge protection at service equipment in new construction. EV charger installations must comply with Article 625, solar PV with Article 690, and battery systems with Article 706. The San Ramon permit process includes plan review for larger projects (typically anything over service-sized 200A or involving PV above 10 kW). Permit fees are based on project valuation and scope. Unpermitted electrical work discovered during sale or subsequent permitting is typically required to be exposed, inspected, and corrected. PG&E coordinates service disconnects and reconnects for panel upgrades and meter work, requiring advance scheduling.