What Are the ADU Electrical Permit Requirements?
When installing electrical systems in an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), you must comply with California state codes, Los Angeles County regulations, and National Electrical Code (NEC) standards to ensure safety and legal compliance. Permit requirements vary by jurisdiction, but they generally include:
Key ADU Electrical Permit Requirements:
✅ Electrical Load Calculation – Determines if your existing electrical panel can handle the ADU or if an upgrade is needed.
✅ Sub-Panel Installation – Required if the main panel lacks capacity for additional circuits.
✅ GFCI & AFCI Protection – Ground Fault and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters are mandatory in living spaces, kitchens, and bathrooms.
✅ Wiring & Circuit Requirements – Proper 120V & 240V wiring, breaker sizing, and dedicated circuits for appliances.
✅ Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Required for all ADUs per California residential safety laws.
✅ Title 24 Energy Compliance – California mandates energy-efficient lighting, ventilation, and electrical consumption regulations.
✅ EV Charger Readiness – Some cities require ADUs to have a dedicated circuit for future EV charger installation.
✅ Solar Power Readiness – Some municipalities now require solar panel pre-wiring for newly built ADUs.
How to Get an ADU Electrical Permit: Step-by-Step Guide
To legally install electrical systems in an ADU, you must apply for an electrical permit through your local Building and Safety Department. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth approval process:
1. Prepare an Electrical Plan
Create a detailed electrical blueprint outlining circuits, outlets, lighting, breaker sizes, and any required panel upgrades.
Include an electrical load calculation to show that your ADU can be safely powered.
2. Submit the Permit Application
Apply through your city or county’s Building and Safety Department.
Pay permit fees, which vary based on ADU size and complexity.
3. Get Your Plan Reviewed
City inspectors will review the submitted electrical plan to ensure compliance with NEC and California Title 24.
Upon approval, you will receive a permit to begin electrical work.
4. Schedule Electrical Inspections
After installation, the city conducts multiple inspections to verify compliance.
Inspections typically cover wiring, grounding, panel setup, and GFCI/AFCI protection.
5. Pass the Final Inspection
Upon passing, the city grants final approval, and your ADU is ready for occupancy!
How to Pass an ADU Electrical Inspection the First Time
Failing an inspection can delay your project and increase costs. Follow these best practices to pass your ADU inspection on the first attempt:
✅ Hire a Licensed ADU Electrician – Ensures compliance with all electrical code standards.
✅ Use Proper Circuit Sizing – Make sure all wiring, breakers, and outlets meet NEC & California codes.
✅ Label the Electrical Panel Clearly – Clearly label breakers to help inspectors verify circuits.
✅ Ensure GFCI & AFCI Protection – These must be installed in required areas.
✅ Verify Grounding & Bonding – Proper grounding prevents hazards and ensures code compliance.
✅ Check for Title 24 Energy Compliance – Use energy-efficient lighting and ventilation solutions.
✅ Complete All Work Before Inspection – Inspectors will not approve incomplete electrical installations.
Why Choose LA Pro Electrical?
At LA Pro Electrical, we specialize in ADU electrical solutions from start to finish. Our turnkey electrical systems have been installed in over 300 ADUs, and we maintain a 99% first-time inspection pass rate.
Our Services Include:
✅ Electrical Permits & Plan Submission – We handle the paperwork and approvals.
✅ Electrical Panel Upgrades & Subpanel Installations – Ensuring your ADU has the proper power capacity.
✅ GFCI & AFCI Protection Installations – Meeting all safety and compliance requirements.
✅ Energy-Efficient & Smart Home Wiring – Future-proof solutions for modern ADUs.
✅ EV Charger & Solar Readiness Wiring – Ensuring compliance with new California regulations.
📞 Need Expert Electrical Services for Your ADU?
Call (833) 663-6777 or email info@laproelectrical.com today to get a free quote and ensure your ADU meets all electrical permit requirements!
