Electrical Permit & Inspection Guide - Elizabeth, NJ (2025)

TL;DR

• In New Jersey, most new electrical work needs a permit under the Uniform Construction Code (UCC): new circuits, service/panel upgrades, EV chargers, most rewiring, generators.
• You’ll typically file the state Construction Permit Application (UCC F-100) plus the Electrical Subcode Technical Section (UCC F-120).
• Inspections usually include a rough (before cover) and a final. Common fail points: grounding/bonding, AFCI/GFCI protection, labeling, and box fill/support.
• Elizabeth’s Construction office provides forms and submission instructions; fees and timelines vary by workload and scope.

When do you need an electrical permit in NJ?

Permits are required for most electrical alterations: adding branch circuits, service/panel upgrades (e.g., 100A → 200A), EV charger circuits (Level-2 240V), generator interlocks/transfer switches, and most rewiring. Exemptions for “ordinary maintenance” are narrow; if you’re unsure, check with the Construction office before starting work.

Which forms do you use?

• UCC F-100 – Construction Permit Application (project and owner details)
• UCC F-120 – Electrical Subcode Technical Section (trade details like service size, feeder/branch circuits, device counts)
  Always use the current versions; the state maintains the latest standard forms. Elizabeth also publishes links to city resources and forms.

How to apply in Elizabeth (step-by-step)

1. Define scope & gather docs. Example: “Upgrade service to 200A and replace panel,” “Install a Level-2 EV charger on a 50A circuit,” “If you’re weighing a service upgrade, compare options on our panel upgrades page.” or “Rewire kitchen small-appliance circuits with GFCI/AFCI.” Collect your panel schedule, load calculation (if near capacity), product cut-sheets, and a simple sketch/one-line diagram if needed.
2. Complete the forms. Fill out F-100 and F-120 completely. The Electrical Subcode form asks for ratings, counts, and equipment details.
3. Submit & pay. Follow the City of Elizabeth Construction page instructions. Submission may be online or over the counter depending on form type; fees are set locally by ordinance.
4. Rough inspection. Schedule when wiring is installed but before insulation/drywall or panel cover goes on. Inspectors check conductor sizes, box fill, securement, grounding/bonding, and required AFCI/GFCI protection.
5. Final inspection. After devices are set, breakers labeled, covers installed, and equipment secured. Provide access to work areas. Labeling gaps and missing protective devices are common re-inspection causes.

Who can pull the permit?

• Licensed Electrical Contractor — the norm for most projects.
• Owner/occupant (single-family) — may be permitted to perform work in their own dwelling but must meet code and pass inspections. When in doubt, confirm with the Construction office before choosing DIY.

Inspections: what to expect & common fails

Rough inspection (before concealment)

• Conductor sizing and ampacity vs. breaker ratings
• Grounding/bonding (GECs, bonding jumpers, water/gas bonding where applicable)
• Box fill and cable/conduit support (securement within required distances)
• Cable protection (bushings, nail plates, conduit where exposed)

Final inspection

• AFCI/GFCI protection where required
• Panel directory and clear labeling; working clearances
• Equipment listing/compatibility (breakers listed for the panel)
• Finish details (device cover plates, luminaire support, exterior in-use covers, bonding of metal parts)

Typical timeline

Timelines vary by workload, but a straightforward residential job often follows: application review within several business days, inspection scheduling within a few days of request, and added utility coordination time for service upgrades.

Local contacts (Elizabeth)

Construction – City of Elizabeth (City Hall) • 50 Winfield Scott Plaza, Elizabeth, NJ 07201 • Main: 908-820-4000. Check the city website for the Construction department page, current forms, and submission instructions.

Permit FAQs

Q: Do I need a permit for a Level-2 EV charger?
A: Almost always yes. New 240V circuits are electrical work under the UCC and are typically inspected for conductor sizing, overcurrent protection, GFCI/AFCI, labeling, and location.

Q: If I only replace a light fixture, do I need a permit?
A: Like-for-like swaps may qualify as ordinary maintenance, but if you add wiring, change box size/location, or add load, expect a permit. When in doubt, ask the Construction office.

Q: How do fees work?
A: Fees are set locally by ordinance and vary by project. Get an estimate at submission.

Pre submittal checklist

• Clear scope (what circuits/equipment; model numbers)
• Panel schedule + load calc for significant loads (EV, HVAC, electric cooking)
• Product cut-sheets (panel, breakers, EVSE)
• Completed F-100 and F-120
• Plan for rough and final inspections; ensure access
• For service upgrades, follow utility disconnect/reconnect guidance

Next steps

• Compare options on our Panel Upgrades page: https://www.elizabethelectricsolutions.com/panel-upgrades