The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) oversees electrical permits and inspections in Ontario, including Ottawa. An electrical permit is required for: installing new electrical circuits, upgrading the electrical panel (100A to 200A), adding or relocating outlets and switches, installing new light fixtures that require new wiring, hot tub or pool electrical connections, EV charger installation (Level 2, 240V), generator transfer switch installation, any wiring for renovation projects (kitchen, bat...
In Ontario, all electrical work that requires a permit must be performed by a licensed electrician with a Certificate of Qualification from the Ontario College of Trades, OR by a homeowner on their own primary residence (homeowner permit). Homeowner permits allow property owners to do their own electrical work on their primary residence, but the work must still meet the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, pass ESA inspection, and be covered by a valid permit. Homeowner electrical work is NOT recomm...
Panel upgrade (100A to 200A): $2,500–$5,000 including permit and inspection. Necessary when adding circuits for renovations, EV chargers, or air conditioning. Most Ottawa homes built before 1990 have 100A panels that may need upgrading. Kitchen renovation electrical: $2,000–$5,000 including permit. Typical scope includes: dedicated 20A circuits for counter outlets, dedicated circuits for dishwasher, fridge, and range, pot light installation, under-cabinet lighting, and island outlet. Basement ...
After electrical work is completed, the ESA must inspect it before the work is energized (connected to power). The inspection process: 1. Your electrician (or you, if using a homeowner permit) requests an inspection through the ESA online portal or by phone. 2. The ESA schedules an inspection within 5–10 business days (faster service is available for an additional fee). 3. The inspector verifies that all work meets the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, including wire sizing, circuit protection, g...
ESA permit fees are based on the scope of work: basic permit (adding a few circuits): $100–$150, renovation permit (kitchen or bathroom): $150–$250, panel upgrade permit: $200–$300, new construction or addition: $250–$400, and homeowner permit: same fees as contractor permits. Timeline: permit application takes 1–2 business days for approval, work proceeds under the permit, and inspection is scheduled after completion (5–10 business day wait). Expedited inspection is available for an additional...
Yes, adding new outlets requires an ESA electrical permit. The permit costs $100–$150 and includes an inspection. Replacing an existing outlet in the same location does not require a permit.
Yes, homeowners can obtain a homeowner permit to do electrical work on their primary residence. The work must meet code and pass ESA inspection. Homeowner electrical work is not recommended for complex projects.
Upgrading from 100A to 200A service costs $2,500–$5,000 including the permit, inspection, and all labour and materials. The upgrade takes 1 day and requires a temporary power shutoff.
Unpermitted electrical work can result in: fines from the ESA, insurance claim denials for fire or damage, required demolition and re-do of work, and problems when selling your home (buyers and lenders require permits).
The inspection itself takes 30–60 minutes depending on scope. Scheduling an inspection typically requires 5–10 business days notice. Expedited inspection is available for an additional $75–$150.