Electrical Frequently Asked Questions
Didn't find your question? Feel free to submit your specific question to buildingsafety@ci.lansing.mi.us
What is an Electrical Code?
The Electrical Code regulates the installation of electrical conductors, devices, and equipment within or on a public or private building or structure. The installation of conductors that connect to the electrical supply and the installation of other outside conductors on the premises. The City of Lansing currently enforces the 2002 Edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC).
What is the purpose of the Electrical Code?
The electrical code serves to provide practical safeguards to persons and property from the hazards arising from the use of electrical power. The code contains provisions necessary for safety.
When is an electrical permit required?
Except as specified below, no electrical system regulated by the Electrical Code shall be installed, altered, repaired, replaced, or remodeled without first obtaining an electrical permit. The following work does not require a permit.
- Portable motors or other portable appliances connected to an approved receptacle by an approved cord or cable.
- Repair or replacement of fixed motors, transformers, or fixed approved appliances, with the same type and rating in the same location.
- Temporary decorative lighting.
- Repair or replacement of current carrying parts of any switch, contactor, or control device.
- Reinstallation of attachment plug receptacles, but not the outlets therefore.
- Repair or replacement of any overcurrent device of the required capacity in the same location.
- Repair or replacement of electrodes or transformers of the same size and capacity for signs or gas tube systems.
- Taping joints.
- Removal of electrical wiring.
- Temporary wiring for experimental purposes in suitable experimental laboratories.
- The wiring of temporary theater, motion picture, or television stage sets.
- The installation, alteration or repair of electrical wiring, apparatus or equipment, or the generation, transmission, distribution or metering of electrical energy, or the operation of signals, or the transmission of intelligence, by a public or private utility in the exercise of its function as a serving utility.
Exemption from a permit does not authorize work to be done in violation of the electrical code or any other law or ordinance.
Must I be licensed to obtain an electrical permit?
A homeowner may obtain an electrical permit for work to be done by them in their own home. The homeowner must file a homeowner's affidavit with the application for an electrical permit. Homeowner's privileges extend to single family residences only and do not apply to any residence or structure from which a monetary gain (i.e. rent) is being received or is intended to be received or which is being used for commercial purposes.
Permits for any work done in a commercial, multi family residential, industrial, or other structure must be obtained by an authorized licensed electrical contractor.
How can I be sure the electrician I hired is licensed?
Ask the electrician to see his/her license or for his/her license number. Any reputable electrician will be glad to give you this information. You can then check the license by calling the Electrical Division of the Bureau of Construction Codes at (517) 241-9320. You may inquire if the license is current and if any complaints are pending.
What are the requirements for electrical connection of a storable or portable pool?
Please see this handout.
What are the requirements for a homeowner installed service replacement?
Please see this handout.
