Do I need a permit for an electrical panel upgrade in San Diego, CA?

Yes. Minor electrical work, including circuit breakers from 15 to 400 amps, uses a Simple (no-plan) permit; above 400 amps needs a stand-alone permit with plans.

What changes the answer

• Over 400 A: plans required

Cost

Fee not extracted; see San Diego Development Services. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://www.sandiego.gov/development-services/what-permits-do-i-need

Where to apply

City of San Diego Development Services Department (online permits)

Permitting authority: City of San Diego Development Services Department. Applies inside the City of San Diego. Exemptions do not apply to designated historical resources, historic districts, or work that needs a development permit (for example environmentally sensitive lands). See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

“A Simple Permit is a “No-plan” permit for minor Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) work that does not require plan review by the City.”

Source: https://www.sandiego.gov/development-services/permits/faqs

“*Circuit breakers exceeding 400 amps require a stand-alone electrical permit with building plans.”

Source: https://www.sandiego.gov/development-services/permits/faqs

Verified: 2026-10-19 · Status: verified · Confidence: medium