Mobile Government 
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Urban Development: Code Administration: Electrical Inspection Unit | |
 | What is a Building and Electrical Code? Building and Electrical codes are rules, regulations, and specifications that the City of Mobile uses to help ensure quality construction and a safe finished structure. |
| | What is an Electrical Permit? Electrical permits and inspections are required for all new electrical work and all repairs. Electrical work is very dangerous to persons performing the work and those persons who may come into contact with that work in the future Thorough knowledge of electrical systems and safety are essential. |
| | Why are inspections needed? The City Electrical Code requires a permit be issued when work is to be performed on a structure. The inspections that follow the issuance of the permit may reveal unsatisfactory work, faulty materials or violations of the electrical code that could result in unsafe and hazardous conditions for you, your family, your employees, or the general public. |
| | Who can obtain an Electrical Permit? Electrical contractors must be licensed and bonded to obtain a permit. Homeowners do not need a license to obtain a permit. However, they must sign an affidavit stating they own and live in the house to which the work will be performed and must pass an electrical homeowner's test. |
| | Where do I apply for an Electrical Permit? Applications for permits can be made at the Government Plaza, Urban Development Department, Code Administration, 205 Government Street, South Tower. 3rd Floor. Mobile, Al. 36633-1827 or at the West Mobile Satellite Office located at 324 South University Boulevard in the Regency Square shopping center. |
| | What is a six-month electrical investigation? A six-month investigation is one of the most frequently requested electrical inspections. There is a standard timeframe within most communities that if the electrical service has been disconnected for a period exceeding six-months, it is required that an inspection by the electrical unit be conducted before the service can be reconnected. This allows the inspector to detect any problems, violations, or changes that may have occurred within that period. The electrical inspector will perform a visual inspection on the exterior and interior electrical systems, looking for damage, alterations, and violations; if there are no problems he/she will authorize the utility company to reconnect the electrical systems. If a problem is found he/she shall require that an electrical contractor make the proper repairs. |
| | Who can purchase a six-month investigation? There are no restrictions on who may purchase a six-month investigation; the landlord, tenant, or their representative may purchase the permit. We do require the proper address, a phone number of the responsible person(s) to contact, and that the structure or building be unlocked. If you wish to have the power reconnected you may purchase for $21.00 a permit at the City of Mobile Urban Development, Code Administration's two locations: 205 Government Street, 3rd Floor South Tower or the Satellite Office at 324 South University Boulevard. For more information please call: (251) 343-6713. |
| | Most common problems that cause a six-month investigation inspection to fail?
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