NYC Electrical Work FAQs | ORBA Electric Inc.

Understanding Electrical Work Under the NYC Electrical Code

According to the NYC Electrical Code, electrical work involves installing, modifying, or repairing wiring or appliances for lighting, heating, or power. For instance, replacing a lightbulb isn’t classified as electrical work, but replacing a light switch or fixture is. The electrical code was established to set standards ensuring the safety of the public and property in New York City.

Electrical license and permit requirements

Electricians must be licensed by the Department of Buildings (DOB) to carry out electrical work in NYC, and only they or their employees are authorized to do so. Most electrical work in homes or businesses requires an electrical permit, which covers all activities involving electrical wires. The Bureau of Electrical Control (BEC) within the DOB issues these permits and generally processes a correctly completed application within three business days.

To verify an electrician’s license

To ensure your electrician is licensed, contact 311 or visit the Department of Buildings website at NYC.gov/buildings, and navigate to the Building Information System (BIS) section.

Application and permit fees

Application fees may vary. For the latest fees, contact 311. Permit fees depend on the project’s scope (refer to the fee schedule on the back of the permit application).

Consequences of working without a permit

Performing electrical work without a permit can result in penalties for both the building owner and the person who did the unauthorized work, including violations, summonses, court appearances, and fines. If your electrical contractor is not licensed, they will face charges for working without a license. To fix electrical violations, you need to hire a licensed electrician to submit an application and resolve the issue. To report work done without a permit, call 311 or visit the DOB website at NYC.gov/buildings to file a complaint online. You can also contact BEC’s Chief of Enforcement. To report misconduct by a licensed electrician, reach out to DOB’s Investigation and Discipline Unit at 212-442-2000.

NYC Adopts National Electrical Code

In 2002, the City embraced the 1999 National Electrical Code (NEC), an industry standard tailored with local amendments for NYC’s unique conditions. This adoption modernized NYC’s outdated electrical code for the first time in over 30 years. The updated code accounts for significant technological progress since the 1960s, such as low voltage systems, fiber optics, digital control systems, and solar and fuel cell technologies, and will streamline the approval process for projects involving these systems. The code will be revised every three years.

Hire a New York City licensed electrician for work that does require an electrical work permit.

To locate a licensed electrician, you can reach out to a professional organization like the NY Electrical Contractors Association at 212-481-0530, or visit the NYC.gov/buildings BIS system for a list of licensed electricians.

Have your licensed electrician complete and submit to BEC an Application for a Certificate of Electrical Inspection.

Electrical applications require signatures from both the property owner or their authorized representative and the electrician completing the work.

If completed properly, the application is entered into a central computer system and given a control number. A permit is then mailed to the licensed electrician.

If the application isn’t filled out correctly, it will be mailed back to the applicant along with a form outlining the mistakes.

When the electrical work is completed, the electrician arranges for an inspection by scheduling an appointment with BEC.

When the work adheres to the NYC Electrical Code, the inspector approves the application. After the fees are settled, a Certificate of Electrical Inspection is sent to the licensed electrician. To confirm that the work was properly performed and reviewed by BEC, request a copy of the Certificate of Electrical Inspection from your electrician.

Electrical Permit

Most electrical work, including handling wires in homes or businesses, requires an electrical permit. The Department of Buildings’ Electrical Unit provides these permits for installations conducted by licensed electrical contractors. All ED16A electrical filings need submission through DOB NOW: Build. The DOB Electrical Plan Review (EPR) team will assess the electrical installations, while Special Permission Requests will be managed by the borough/HUB office.

Electrical Plan Review (EPR)

Rule 4000-01 outlines the full process for submitting an Electrical Plan Review.

Electrical Special Permission Requests

Electrical special permission requests will adhere to the CCD1 process. Your RDP can seek a Department Determination of Construction Codes and Zoning Resolution by filing a CCD1. For further details, refer to Rule 4000-01.

Consequences of Working Without a Permit

Performing electrical work without a permit can lead to violations, summonses, court appearances, and fines for both the building owner and the person responsible for the work. Additionally, an unlicensed electrical contractor may also face fines for operating without a license.