MDK Permitting › Permit guides

Electrical permits: panel upgrades, EV chargers and hot tubs

In Oregon, new circuits, panel and service upgrades, EV chargers and hot tub wiring all need an electrical permit and inspection.

Do I need a permit for an EV charger or hot tub?

Yes. Both need a new circuit, and new circuits need an electrical permit and inspection in Oregon. A hot tub on a deck may also need a building permit for the deck.

Do I need a permit for a panel upgrade?

Yes. Panel and service upgrades need an electrical permit, and the utility usually needs to be involved to disconnect and reconnect power.

How are electrical permit fees figured?

Oregon cities charge by item: a fee for the service or panel size, plus a fee per new circuit. Our price builder uses each city's published schedule.

Do you do the wiring?

No. We handle the permit, paperwork and inspections. A licensed electrician does the work.

What it costs

Our price, plus city permit fees worked out from each city’s published fee schedule. City fees are paid to the city and the final amount is set at review. Construction isn’t included.

ExampleMDK priceWashington CountyHillsboroPortlandClackamas CountyMarion County
200 amp panel upgrade
Electrical permit
$375
plans, engineering & permits
About $255About $100From $185About $185About $95
EV charger (one new circuit)
Electrical permit
$325
plans, engineering & permits
About $255About $75From $185About $140About $75
Hot tub (one new circuit)
Electrical permit
$325
plans, engineering & permits
About $255About $75From $185About $140About $75

County columns are for areas outside city limits. Other cities have their own fees. Get your exact numbers with the price builder.

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More permit guides: Decks · Retaining walls · Outdoor stairs · Porch & patio covers · ADUs & garage conversions · Additions · Load-bearing walls · Sheds & fences

General guidance for Oregon homeowners. Rules vary by city and county, and the building official makes the final call. Prices checked against published fee schedules in November 2026.