Seattle, WA Building Safety: Electrical Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Adopted code
- 2023 NEC + WAC 296-46B (SMC 22.101.010)
- Enforcing agency
- Seattle Dept. of Construction & Inspections
- Min. self-issued permit fee
- $105.12 (OTC electrical permit)
- Late renewal fee
- 1/2 base fee after 1 year
- Civil penalty
- $27/day for unpaid permit fees
Summary
Seattle enforces its own Electrical Code, the 2023 National Electrical Code plus selected portions of WAC 296-46B, adopted by SMC 22.101.010 with local amendments in Attachment C, and requires an SDCI electrical permit for wiring installations, additions, and alterations. SMC 22.900D.150 charges permit fees on a valuation basis when plans are reviewed, or from a flat fee table when they are not, with a $105.12 minimum self-issued permit.
Permit fees for electrical installations for which plans and specifications are reviewed by the Director shall be charged on a valuation basis as set forth in Table D-14 for 22.900D.150.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Municipal Code: Supplement 44 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
1. Temporary electrical installations are billed for services only. 12, and a single-family dwelling electrical permit does not require additional fees for voice, audio, or data wiring except security systems, which do require a separate fee. 4. Electrical permits may be renewed for 1/4 the SDCI base fee if renewed within 30 days before expiration or up to one year after, rising to 1/2 the base fee for renewals filed more than a year late. 010).
Violations & Fines
Proceeding with wiring work before an electrical permit fee is paid is unlawful under SMC 22.900A.070, and SDCI may post a stop-work order on the property. Fees unpaid 30 days after billing accrue 12 percent annual interest under SMC 22.900A.060, and SMC 22.900A.080 authorizes a $27-per-day civil penalty, enforced by the City Attorney in Seattle Municipal Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What electrical code edition applies in Seattle?
How much does a Seattle electrical permit cost?
Do single-family homeowners pay extra for low-voltage wiring?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Seattle
Compare Seattle to another location·View the Washington building safety overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Electrical Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle electrical permits.