EV Charger Permits & Regulations: What You Need to Know in Portland

Installing a home EV charger is a smart upgrade for any electric vehicle owner in Portland. But before you get started, it’s essential to understand the local regulations, permitting process, and electrical code requirements that govern EV charger installations in the city.

This guide walks you through the necessary steps to ensure your installation is legal, safe, and up to code—whether you're doing it yourself (not recommended) or hiring a licensed professional.

Do You Need a Permit to Install an EV Charger in Portland?

Yes. In Portland, you must obtain an electrical permit before installing a Level 2 EV charger (240V). Permits are required for any electrical upgrades or additions that involve new circuits, wiring, or breaker installations.

Permits help ensure that the installation complies with Portland building codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC).

Permit requirements include:

  • A completed permit application submitted to the Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS)

  • Identification of the charger model and amperage

  • Site plan showing the charger location relative to the electrical panel

You can apply for an electrical permit online via the Portland Permitting Portal.

What Are the Electrical Code Requirements?

Your EV charger installation must comply with the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) and Portland’s local amendments. These regulations ensure your setup is safe and compatible with your home’s electrical infrastructure.

Key Electrical Requirements:

  • Dedicated 240V Circuit: Must be sized for the charger’s amperage (typically 40-50 amps for Level 2)

  • GFCI Protection: Ground-fault protection is required for EV charger circuits

  • Proper Conduit and Wire Gauge: Must match load and distance requirements

  • Panel Capacity Check: Load calculations determine if your existing panel can support the charger

  • UL Listed Equipment: Only certified chargers approved for residential use are allowed

Our electricians are trained to ensure all installations meet NEC and Portland-specific standards.

Does the City Require an Inspection?

Yes. After the charger is installed, the city will send an inspector to verify that the work was done safely and according to code.

The inspection covers:

  • Correct circuit and breaker sizing

  • Proper grounding and wiring practices

  • Secure and weatherproof charger mounting (if outdoors)

  • Verification of GFCI protection and labeling

If the installation passes, the permit is finalized. If not, corrections must be made and a re-inspection may be required.

How We Handle Permitting for You

Hiring a licensed professional simplifies the process. Our team handles all the permitting and inspection coordination so you don’t have to worry about:

  • Filing paperwork with the city

  • Scheduling inspections

  • Navigating NEC and Portland-specific rules

We ensure that your installation is fully code-compliant and legally permitted, giving you peace of mind and protection against fines or insurance issues.

FFinal Thoughts: Get It Done Right the First Time

Permitting and code compliance are not just red tape—they protect your safety, your home, and your investment. By understanding Portland’s EV charger regulations and working with a qualified installer, you can enjoy fast, safe, and hassle-free home charging.

Need expert help navigating EV charger permits and regulations in Portland?
Contact us today for a free consultation and fully code-compliant installation

Book Your Free, No-Obligation Estimate!

📞 503-567-9228

Have Questions?

We’re ready to help with all your electrical needs. Fill out our online form or call us today!

✅ Free, in-person estimates
✅ Licensed & insured electricians
✅ Fast scheduling & timely service
✅ Locally owned & operated in Portland

Our Customer Reviews

Get Your Custom Quote Today

We will send you a personalized estimate within the next 24 hours tailored to your specific project.

FAQs About EV Charger Permits in Portland

  • Yes, an electrical permit is required for Level 2 (240V) charger installations.

  • No. DIY installations still require a permit, and only licensed electricians can perform new circuit installations legally.

  • Inspections are typically scheduled within a few days of installation. The process itself takes about 15-30 minutes.

  • You may face fines, be forced to remove the charger, or encounter issues with insurance claims if something goes wrong.

  • The licensed electrician or contractor typically pulls the permit on your behalf.

For more information or to schedule a service call, please contact Portland Metro Electric. We’re here to help with all your electrical needs.

Why Choose Portland Metro Electric?

Choosing Portland Metro Electric for your electrical service upgrade means selecting unmatched professionalism and quality. Contact Portland Metro Electric today to ensure your home is powered safely and efficiently for whatever the future brings.

Expertise:

With years of experience in the electrical industry, our team is equipped with the knowledge to handle any challenges that arise during an upgrade.

Certified Technicians:

All our electricians are certified and regularly trained in the latest electrical standards and safety protocols.

Customer Satisfaction:

We prioritize your needs and satisfaction above all else, ensuring that our solutions are tailored to meet your specific requirements.

Safety Commitment:

We adhere to strict safety guidelines to ensure that all work is done safely and to the highest standards.

01.

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.

Our Process

02.

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.

03.

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.

04.

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.

Contact Portland Metro Electric

 

Address:

Office coming soon…

Phone:

1 (503) 863-7733

Hours:

Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 5:00pm

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.