Sherman, TX Building Safety: Electrical Permits (2026)

Section 3.02.001(a)(3) of the Sherman Code of Ordinances adopts the National Electrical Code, 2023 edition, as a minimum building standard, and § 3.03.001(2) deletes Part VIII, Electrical, chapters 34 through 43, from the residential code so the NEC governs. The permit duty comes from § 3.01.002: anyone installing, altering, repairing or replacing an electrical system regulated by code applies for a permit first. Permits go to the development services department through the online permit portal, and the building official reviews them.

The local amendments in § 3.03.003 set the ground rules. Installations and alterations must produce a sufficient and safe electrical system. The local power company, its agents or employees make all connections from the power lines to the service installations, and it is unlawful for anyone else to do so. It is also unlawful to sell, offer for sale or rent, or repair electrical material or appliances within the city that is not approved and does not bear an approved seal. For temporary service, the building official can issue a permit of not more than ninety days when immediate connection is considered necessary, desirable and reasonably safe and the applicant can qualify for a regular permit within a reasonable time. Temporary construction services must be inspected and approved by a building inspector after installation.

Contractors face a registration layer under § 3.01.003. Electrical contractors must register with the city and hold an active State of Texas Electrician License issued by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The application requires proof of liability insurance listing the city as certificate holder for a minimum of $300,000.00 per occurrence, and registration expires on December 31st each year. Homeowners working on their own homestead are exempt from registration. The Appendix C single-family schedule lists mechanical, electric and plumbing permits at $75.00 and $30.00 for each additional inspection.