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1. Hire a Licensed & Bonded Electrician

1. They can correctly install and connect your generator using proper wiring methods.
2. They can help you understand what appliances and loads your generator can support.
3. This will help prevent unnecessary damage to your generator and appliances.

2. Contact the PUD

1. Public safety is paramount. Improperly installed generators have the potential to backfeed into the PUD’s electrical system and energize distribution lines that are dead.
2. Customer safety is paramount. Eliminate potential liability and negligence due to an improperly installed generator.

3. Re-Energization of the PUD's Distribution System

1. If there is not a visible open, the re-energization of the PUD’s distribution system will put your structure and generator at risk as well as our equipment.

Are You a Do-It-Yourselfer? Don’t Forget the Electrical Permit!

A message from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, about 18,200 home fires are caused by electrical wiring each year, resulting in about 120 deaths, 520 injuries, and $450 million in property damage.

Protect Your Family & Your Property

• An electrical permit is required. Washington state electrical safety laws require a permit and inspection for all new and additional electrical work. An electrical permit and professional inspection assures that your electrical work meets current safety code.
• Do electrical work only if you are qualified. If you do not have a good understanding of electrical wiring and are not qualified, hire a licensed electrical contractor.
• If you do your own electrical work, you must buy the permit and call for an inspection.
• If you hire a licensed electrical contractor, your contractor must buy the permit and will get the inspection.
• Never overload outlets, extension cords or electrical circuits. If your circuit breaker trips, either it is overloaded or a circuit has malfunctioned and should be inspected by a qualified person.
• Keep your permit and inspection approval in a safe place for future reference. You may need it when trying to sell or refinance your home or to get insurance.
• Remember: The surest way to safeguard your home is with an electrical permit and inspection. Lives depend on it!

Contact L&I For More Information

Visit the Washington State Department of L&I website for more information.