The permit path depends on the project and jurisdiction
Michigan LARA publishes the state electrical-code and permit framework, while local authorities may administer permits and inspections within their jurisdictions. Utilities also apply separate requirements when a project affects metering or service connections.
Landmark identifies permit and inspection coordination in the written proposal. Permit fees, plan review, utility charges and correction work are not automatically included unless the approved scope lists them.
Key distinctions
These terms and functions often appear together, but treating them as interchangeable can lead to the wrong repair or project plan.
- Code: technical requirements adopted for the work
- Permit: authorization to perform a defined project
- Inspection: authority review of permitted work
- Utility release: coordination required before reconnection or energization
- Contractor license and local registration: separate credentials that can both affect project administration
Warning signs and safety limits
Stop using equipment that shows heat, smoke, arcing or severe damage. Leave the area and call 911 for active fire, heavy smoke, electrical injury or immediate danger.
- Work begins without confirming the authority and permit path
- A proposal says 'to code' but does not define permit responsibility
- Service equipment changes lack utility coordination
- Concealed work proceeds before a required rough inspection
- An inspection correction expands beyond the original written scope
Plan the next step
A useful evaluation begins with the property, equipment and decision the customer needs to make. Gather the information below before service when it is safe and readily available.
- Property jurisdiction and permit authority
- Project type, extent and existing conditions
- Plan, load or equipment documents required
- Inspection sequence before walls close or equipment energizes
- Utility and other-trade timing
How Landmark applies this guide
Landmark turns general guidance into a property-specific electrical scope through inspection, testing and written options.
- Identify the property jurisdiction and project scope
- Confirm permit, registration, plan and utility requirements
- State included fees and responsibilities in writing
- Schedule required inspections at the correct milestones
- Address documented corrections through approved scope
- Retain final permits, approvals and equipment records
What this guide cannot determine
General education improves the first conversation, but it cannot replace field access, measurements, equipment instructions or an authority's project-specific decision.
- A website cannot determine every local administrative requirement
- An inspector reviews the permitted scope, not automatically the entire property
- A new code edition does not automatically require every older installation to change
- The authority, utility and equipment requirements control the actual project
Codes and standards that apply
These references explain the framework for this work. The adopted code, Michigan amendments, local authority, utility rules, equipment listings and manufacturer instructions must be considered together for the actual installation.
Technical content last reviewed August 9, 2026. Requirements may change; project-specific determinations are made from the adopted rules and field conditions.Frequently asked questions
Who decides whether an electrical permit is required?
The authority with jurisdiction applies the adopted requirements to the actual work. Landmark confirms the applicable process during project planning.
Are permits included in every Landmark price?
No. The written proposal states whether Landmark includes permit coordination, fees, inspections and utility steps.
Does an inspection approve the entire house?
Not automatically. The inspector reviews the permitted work and related conditions within the authority's scope.
Must every older electrical component meet the newest code?
Not simply because it is older. Condition, alteration history, project scope and adopted requirements determine what must change.
Technical review
Reviewed by Landmark Electric
This service information was reviewed for scope, safety context and accuracy by Landmark Electric, Inc., Michigan Electrical Contractor License #6114673. It provides general planning information; the adopted rules, local authority, utility requirements, equipment instructions and actual field conditions control each project.