Upper Darby Township requires electrical permits for the installation, replacement, or alteration of electrical systems and equipment.

Electrical permits are required to ensure that work is performed in accordance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC) and applicable Township regulations, protecting public safety and reducing the risk of fire, shock, and electrical hazards.

When an Electrical Permit is Required

An electrical permit is required for, but not limited to, the following:

• Installation of new electrical systems or wiring
• Replacement or upgrade of electrical panels or service
• Installation or replacement of circuits or feeders
• Installation of outlets, switches, or lighting fixtures (new or relocated)
• Installation of generators or transfer switches
• Installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment
• Installation of wiring for HVAC, appliances, or other equipment
• Installation of temporary power for construction
• Installation of low-voltage systems associated with building systems (as applicable)

Any work involving electrical systems regulated by the UCC requires a permit.

Work That May Not Require an Electrical Permit

Certain minor work may not require a permit, including:

• Minor repair work, such as replacing lamps or bulbs
• Plugging in approved portable electrical equipment
• Replacement of small components that do not alter system safety

Important:
Even if a permit is not required, all work must still comply with applicable codes and safety standards.

Who Can Apply

Electrical permits may be obtained by:

• Licensed electrical contractors
• Property owners (where permitted by law)

All electrical work must be performed in accordance with applicable code requirements and Township regulations.

Application Requirements

A complete electrical permit application typically includes:

• Completed permit application form
• Description of the work being performed
• Load calculations (if applicable)
• Panel schedules or service details (for service upgrades)
• Equipment specifications (if applicable)
• Any required supporting documentation

Additional documentation may be required depending on the scope of work.

Plan Review and Approval

Electrical permit applications are reviewed to ensure compliance with:

• Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC)
• National Electrical Code (NEC), as adopted by Pennsylvania
• Applicable Township regulations

Once the application is approved, the permit will be issued.

Work may not begin until the permit has been issued.

Inspections

Electrical inspections are required to verify that work complies with approved permits and applicable codes.

Inspections may include:

• Rough wiring inspection
• Service and panel inspection
• Equipment installation verification
• Grounding and bonding verification
• Final inspection

All required inspections must be approved prior to final completion.

Permit Expiration

Electrical permits are valid for a limited time.

Failure to commence or complete work within the required timeframe may result in permit expiration.

Extensions may be requested in accordance with Township regulations.

Fees and Payments

Permit fees are established in accordance with the Township Fee Schedule.

Payments may be made:

• Online
• By check or money order

Cash is not accepted.

(Fees are subject to change. Please contact the Township to verify the most current fee schedule.)

Important Reminders

• A permit is required before starting electrical work
• All work must comply with applicable codes
• Inspections are required prior to completion
• Additional permits (building, plumbing, or mechanical) may be required depending on the project
• Working without a permit may result in double fees, stop work orders, and enforcement action

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to upgrade my electrical panel?
Yes. Panel upgrades and service changes require a permit.

Do I need a permit to install new outlets or lighting?
Yes, when installing new or relocating electrical components.

Do I need a permit for a generator or EV charger?
Yes. Installation of generators and electric vehicle charging equipment requires a permit.

Will my work be inspected?
Yes. Inspections are required to verify compliance with code requirements.

Contact the Buildings Division

For questions regarding electrical permits, please contact the Buildings Division.

Email: LI@UpperDarby.org

Phone: 610-734-7613

Residents may also submit inquiries or report concerns through the Township One Center.

To submit a concern, email One@UpperDarby.org or call the One Center Request Line at 610-734-7625.