Orlando Electrical Permit Guide: What You Need to Know (2025)
Electrical permits protect you, your family, and your home. In Orange County, most significant electrical work requires a permit and inspection. This guide explains when electrical permits are required in Orlando, how the process works, and what happens if you skip the permit.
Key Takeaways
- New circuits, panel upgrades, and EV charger installation all require permits in Orange County
- Simple repairs (replacing outlets, switches, fixtures) typically do not require a permit
- Your licensed electrician must pull the permit — not you
- Electrical permit fees run $75–$300 in Orange County
- Unpermitted electrical work voids homeowners insurance for related claims
When Is an Electrical Permit Required in Orange County?
An electrical permit is required for: new circuits, panel upgrades or replacements, EV charger installation, subpanel installation, new service entrance, rewiring, and any work involving the electrical panel.
Simple repairs typically do not require a permit: replacing an existing outlet or switch, replacing a light fixture, replacing a ceiling fan, and replacing a circuit breaker (same amperage).
When in doubt, ask your licensed electrician — they know the local requirements and will advise on permit requirements for your specific project.
The Electrical Permit Process in Orange County
Your licensed electrician submits a permit application to Orange County Building Division. For most residential electrical projects, permits are issued same-day or within 1–2 business days.
Electrical permit fees run $75–$300 depending on project scope. Panel upgrades and new service installations are at the higher end. Your electrician should include permit fees in their quote.
After the work is complete, an inspection is required. For panel work, the utility company (Duke Energy) must also coordinate the meter disconnect and reconnect.
Why Electrical Permits Matter
Electrical permits exist for safety. Faulty electrical work is a leading cause of house fires. The inspection process catches dangerous mistakes before they become tragedies.
Unpermitted electrical work voids your homeowners insurance for related claims. If a fire starts in an unpermitted circuit, your insurer can deny the claim. When you sell your home, unpermitted electrical work must be disclosed and may require costly remediation.
Never hire an electrician who suggests skipping the permit — this is a major red flag.
Permit Checklist
- Confirmed electrician will pull all required permits
- Permit number provided before work begins
- Rough-in inspection scheduled for new circuits/panel work
- Final inspection scheduled and passed
- Certificate of completion received
- Duke Energy coordinated for meter work if applicable
Red Flags to Avoid
- Electrician suggests skipping the permit to save money
- Asks you to pull the permit yourself
- Work begins before permit is issued
- Cannot provide permit number when asked
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to replace an outlet in Orlando?
Replacing an existing outlet typically does not require a permit. Installing a new outlet on a new circuit does require a permit.
How much does an electrical permit cost in Orange County?
Electrical permit fees run $75–$300 depending on project scope.
How long does it take to get an electrical permit in Orange County?
Most residential electrical permits are issued same-day or within 1–2 business days.
Do I need a permit for an EV charger installation in Orlando?
Yes — EV charger installation requires an electrical permit in Orange County.
What does an electrical inspector check?
Wire sizing, circuit protection, grounding, GFCI protection in required areas, and overall compliance with the National Electrical Code.
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