What must a contractor obtain before starting electrical work on a project?

• A. An electrical permit from the local building department
• B. A business license from the state
• C. A building permit from the fire marshal
• D. A clearance from environmental health

Answer: (A)

Before starting electrical work, you must obtain an electrical permit from the local building department. This permit is the official authorization to perform the work and starts the process of plan review and required inspections, ensuring the installation complies with the National Electrical Code and local amendments. It also helps confirm that qualified personnel perform the work and that inspectors will verify the installation at various stages for safety. A state business license covers operating legally as a business but doesn’t authorize construction work. A fire marshal building permit is generally for fire-related systems, not routine electrical installations. Environmental health clearance isn’t related to electrical projects.