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Springfield, MA Building Safety: Electrical Permits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Permit required
Before any wiring work begins
Adopted technical code
527 CMR 12.00, State Electrical Code
Licensing
State Examiners of Electricians, MGL c. 141
Amended
2-24-2004, Ch. 140 Art. II

Summary

No one may install, alter, repair, or remove electrical wiring in Springfield without first applying to the Department and obtaining a permit, under City Code § 140-9, on top of the state-licensed electrician requirement.

No person, firm or corporation shall install, alter, repair or remove any electrical wiring without first making application to the Department and receiving a permit. Therefore, such an application shall be on a form approved by the Commissioner and shall contain all information necessary to describe the work which is to be performed.

(3) If it shall appear from said application that all applicable laws, ordinances, rules and regulations have been or will be complied with, a permit shall be granted authorizing such installation, alterations, repair or removal.

(4) For the maintenance of the electrical wiring in an establishment, or in a power plant other than that of an electric utility, where a licensed master electrician is engaged or where a licensed electrician is employed regularly on the premises, a maintenance permit may be issued for a stated period, which shall not exceed one year. For new work in such an establishment or power plant, Subsection A of this section shall also apply.

C. Inspections.

(1) When work is completed or ready for inspection, the Department shall be notified immediately, and a time shall be set for an inspection. Electrical wiring shall not be lathed in, covered nor concealed from view until approved by an inspector of wiring.

(2)

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4680006; v21 updated 2025-12-15; through 12-15-2025).

Full Breakdown

Section 140-9, in Chapter 140, Article II (amended in its entirety 2-24-2004), requires a city permit before any electrical installation, alteration, repair, or removal, issued only after the Department confirms the applicant holds a license from the State Examiners of Electricians under MGL c. 141. Separately, § 140-5 adopts the Massachusetts State Electrical Code (527 CMR 12.00) by reference as the technical wiring standard controlling within city limits. If an inspection finds unsafe wiring, the Commissioner can order defects fixed within 10 days and, if they aren't, order the electrical service disconnected.

Violations & Fines

Uncorrected defects found on inspection let the Commissioner order the electrical service discontinued after 10 days' notice, and reconnection requires the Commissioner's written approval or a new meter permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a city permit to rewire a building in Springfield?
Yes, § 140-9 requires an application to the Department and a permit before any installation, alteration, repair, or removal of electrical wiring.
What electrical code does Springfield enforce?
The Massachusetts State Electrical Code, 527 CMR 12.00, adopted by reference under § 140-5 as the controlling technical standard citywide.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Springfield

All Springfield rules

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