Do I Need a Permit for Generator Installation in Portland?
Portland Metro Electric
Installing a generator in Portland requires following local regulations to ensure safety and compliance. Understanding permit requirements is crucial for homeowners and businesses planning a generator installation. This guide explains when permits are needed, why they matter, and how professional assistance ensures a smooth process.

Do You Need a Permit for Generator Installation in Portland?
Yes, a permit is required for most generator installations in Portland. Permits apply to installations involving:
Standby Generators: Permanently installed units that connect to your electrical system.
Fuel Connections: Installations requiring natural gas or propane connections.
Electrical Modifications: Changes to wiring, panels, or circuit breakers.
Permits are necessary to ensure installations meet safety codes and comply with local regulations.
Why Permits for Generator Installation Are Important
Obtaining a permit offers several benefits:
Safety Compliance: Ensures your installation follows Portland’s building and electrical codes.
Proper Inspections: Certified inspectors verify that the generator operates safely and efficiently.
Legal Protection: Avoid fines, penalties, or issues during property inspections or sales.
Insurance Coverage: Ensures your installation is eligible for insurance claims in case of damage or accidents.
Steps to Obtain a Permit for Generator Installation
- Application Submission
- Submit a permit application to Portland’s Bureau of Development Services (BDS).
- Include details about the generator type, size, and location.
- Plan Review
- A review ensures your project complies with safety codes and zoning requirements.
- Permit Approval
- Once approved, you’ll receive a permit to begin the installation process.
- Inspections
- A city inspector reviews the completed installation to ensure compliance.
How Our Team Helps With Permits and Compliance
We simplify the permit process by handling all the necessary steps on your behalf:
Permit Applications: We prepare and submit detailed applications to the local authorities.
Code Compliance: Our licensed electricians ensure installations meet Portland’s safety and zoning regulations.
Inspection Coordination: We schedule and assist with all required inspections to confirm your generator is ready for use.
Expert Guidance: We provide clear instructions for homeowners and businesses throughout the process.
In Portland, obtaining a permit for generator installation is essential to ensure safety, compliance, and long-term reliability. Professional electricians can simplify the process, manage permits, and provide a seamless installation experience. Contact our team to learn more about generator installation requirements and how we can assist.
Our Client Testimonials

Real homeowners. Real results.
We’re proud to be one of Portland’s most trusted remodeling companies—because our reputation is built on happy clients and quality work that lasts.
Expertise
Our licensed electricians are highly skilled and continuously trained in the latest electrical standards and technologies.
Custom Solutions
We evaluate your specific electrical needs and provide customized solutions that best suit your home and lifestyle.
Local Knowledge
We prioritize your safety by adhering to stringent safety codes and using only the highest-quality materials.
Quality and Safety
From initial consultation to final inspection, our process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free, minimizing disruption to your daily life.
Customer Satisfaction
As local experts familiar with Portland's building regulations, we ensure that all upgrades meet or exceed local codes.
Contact Us for Your Free Estimate Today!
Call us now, or fill out our contact form and one of our electrical experts will get in tough with you shorty. We will listen to your project needs or concerns and help guide you in the right direction. If the project is can be remotely estimated we can send you a personalized estimate within the next 24 hours.
Our Step-by-step service Process
From the first call to the final reveal, our process is built for clarity, comfort, and craftsmanship.
Give Us A Call
A Portland Metro Electric expert will answer any of your questions, discuss the project in detail, provide professional expertise, and consultation. For most of our projects we can provide a minimum and maximum of what you can expect to pay for your electrical project.
Free Estimate
For certain projects we will provide a customized estimate without needing to schedule an in person visit. For complex projects we will schedule one our our electricians to visit your residence, provide an in person inspection, consultation, and a customized estimate.
Schedule Project
We will send you a customized estimate, and let you select the best date & time to schedule your project. The estimate will include a summary of the projects material costs and fees. Once the estimate is approved and project date is scheduled, we will take care of everything from permits (if necessary), to ordering all the materials.
Complete Project
On the day of the project our electricians will give you a courtesy call before arrival. We will begin and complete the electrical project. We will provide a detailed walkthrough on how to operate the newly installed service (EV charger, electrical breaker box, hot tub, etc.). And finally insure you are satisfied with the project and service.
We service most locations in the greater portland area!
Portland
Milwaukee
Gladstone
Clackamas
Happy Valley
West Linn
Oregon City
Lake Oswego
Wilsonville
Tigard
Tualatin
Gresham
Damascus
Sandy
And More!
OFFICE
Head Office
Portland Metro Electric LLC
8415 SE Hinkley Ave, Happy Valley, OR 97086

Ready to Restore Power or Upgrade Your Electrical?
Call us now, or fill out our contact form and one of our electrical experts will get in tough with you shorty. We will listen to your project needs or concerns and help guide you in the right direction. If the project is can be remotely estimated we can send you a personalized estimate within the next 24 hours.