Yes. A 240V electrical permit is required for Level 2 EV charger installation throughout British Columbia. This is a BC Safety Authority requirement, not something that varies by city or municipality.
The good news: if you hire a licensed electrical contractor, they apply for and manage the permit on your behalf. You don’t need to contact BC Safety Authority, the city, or any government office. The permit and inspection are typically included in your installation quote.
Why Is a Permit Required?
A Level 2 EV charger operates on 240V — the same voltage as your dryer or electric range. Incorrectly installed 240V circuits are a significant fire and electrocution hazard. The permit process exists to ensure:
— The work is done by a licensed electrician
— The installation meets BC Electrical Code standards
— A BC Safety Authority inspector verifies the work before it’s used
What Does the Permit Process Look Like?
1. Your licensed electrician applies for the electrical permit with BC Safety Authority before work begins.
2. The electrician installs the charger.
3. BC Safety Authority schedules an inspection.
4. The inspector visits and verifies the work meets BC Electrical Code.
5. You receive your inspection certificate — you’re now fully licensed to use the charger.
The entire process typically takes 3–7 business days. Your electrician manages steps 1, 3, and 4.
What If I Skip the Permit?
Installing a Level 2 EV charger without a permit in BC is a bylaw violation that carries real consequences:
— Your home insurance may not cover electrical fires caused by unpermitted work
— When you sell your home, the unpermitted work may need to be remediated (at your cost)
— If an inspector discovers unpermitted work, you may be required to remove and redo the installation with a permit
— In some cases, fines apply
It’s not worth skipping. The permit adds a few days to the process and is included in most installation quotes.
Does the Permit Cost Extra?
At Influx Electric, the permit and inspection are included in our installation quote — there’s no separate permit fee charged to you. Some installers charge for permits separately; make sure to ask upfront.
Get a Permitted EV Charger Installation in BC
We handle the full permit process for EV charger installations across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. No paperwork required from you.
Get a Free Quote — Call 778-751-6092
We serve: Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, Surrey, North Vancouver, Burnaby, Langley, Chilliwack, Abbotsford, Mission.
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