FAST ELECTRIC SPOKANE · GUIDE
EV charger permits in Spokane
A Level 2 home charger runs on a new 240-volt circuit, and new circuits are permit work in Washington. This guide explains the permit side, typical costs and the order of events, so nothing surprises you.
Do you need a permit?
In almost all cases, yes. Installing a Level 2 charger means adding a new 240-volt circuit, and new electrical circuits require a permit in Washington. Plugging a Level 1 charger into an existing regular outlet is the main exception, since no new wiring is involved.
Who handles the permit
When you hire an electrical contractor, the contractor must buy the permit for the work. Depending on your address, permits and inspections are handled by the city or by Washington State Labor & Industries (L&I). Homeowners doing their own work buy their own permit, but L&I itself strongly encourages hiring a licensed electrical contractor.
Permit source: Washington L&I: electrical permits and inspections
What it costs
A US Department of Transportation summary published in November 2020 reports an estimated $1,400 for a detached-house Level 2 charger upgrade, based on a 2019 study. The estimate covers charging equipment and installation, not installation labor alone. It is historical national context, not a current Spokane price or a Fast Electric Spokane quote. Ask for a current, itemized quote for your property.
Historical price source: US DOT ITS: Level 2 home charging estimate (2020 summary, 2019 study)
The order of events
- Check panel capacity: a load calculation shows whether your panel can carry the charger
- Written scope: circuit size, charger location, mounting, permit
- Permit purchased by the contractor
- Installation, usually a few hours for a simple run
- Inspection by the city or L&I
- Test charge with your vehicle
Related guides and pages
Electrical panel upgrade cost in Spokane · How electrical permits work in Spokane and Washington · Electrical services · Planning guide
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