What permits are needed for my project?
Building and renovation projects are subject to many standards.
- The State of California issues plumbing, electrical and mechanical codes.
- Each city and county has its own ordinances.
You’re responsible for:
- Securing all required permits
- Arranging for inspections
PG&E verifies that you have met these requirements
- We may perform additional inspections before connecting your gas or electric service.
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) regulates the installation and delivery of gas and electric services.
- PG&E does not establish services until gas piping and electric services facilities conform to CPUC regulations.
- In addition to CPUC regulations, PG&E has further standards to ensure that we provide safe and reliable power.
What is the Statement of Applicant's Contract Anticipated Costs (SACAC)?
The SACAC is the estimate of costs that you provide on Form 79-1003.
- You must complete and signForm 79-1003 when you request gas or electric service.
- If you hire a contractor for your project, your contractor should estimate the cost for you.
Am I required to hire a contractor to prepare my project for gas or electric service?
You are responsible for any trenching, plumbing or electrical service that is required to prepare for your new gas or electric service.
- You may do this work if you are qualified or you may choose to hire a licensed contractor.
How long will it take to schedule an initial site visit to start gas and electric service?
A PG&E representative will contact you within three days of receiving your application for gas or electric service.
- If it’s necessary to schedule a site visit, the typical wait time for an appointment is two weeks.
How long does it take to get gas or electric service connected?
Service connection time varies depending on:
- The complexity of your project
- The number of projects we have in progress
For information about your specific project, please talk with your Job Owner.
Will I need temporary power before my permanent gas and electric service is installed?
You’ll probably need temporary power if:
- You are working on a construction project
- You are using electrical equipment at your project site
To get information on requesting temporary power:
DownloadBuilding and Renovation Services - Electric Service - Temporary Construction Power (PDF).
To request temporary power:
Call1-877-743-7782or apply online. Visit PG&E Building and Renovation Services online login.
How do I determine my gas and electric load requirements?
Many manufacturers include energy usage information in user manuals or on equipment.
- Your plumbing or electrical contractor can also help you determine load requirements.
How do I decide where to locate my gas meter?
PG&E must approve the placement of your gas meter.
Follow these guidelines for installing your gas meter:
- Place your gas meter outside of the structure in an easily accessible area
- It should be protected from corrosion and other damage, including possible vandalism
- If the meter must be placed near oncoming vehicle traffic:
- Install the meter as far as possible from traffic
- Surround the meter with barrier posts or bollards
- If possible, locate the meter in a breezeway that is well ventilated by outside air.
- Ideally, one end of the breezeway opens into a large, unobstructed space and the other end includes two vents.
- At a minimum, both ends must have vents at the top and bottom of the space.
- If possible, hire a qualified plumber to help you install your gas meter in the ideal location.
Find preferred gas meter locations by viewing the PG&E Greenbook.Visit Electric and Gas Service Requirements.
If you’re requesting electric service along with gas service, ensure that there is adequate separation between the gas and electric meters.
Am I required to be present when my gas meter is set?
Yes. You must be present when your gas meter is set. When we set the meter, we also check your appliances and light any pilot lights.
How do I determine where to place my electrical panel?
The electrical panel for underground service should be attached to a wall, if possible.
In areas served by overhead lines, PG&E installs a drop from the distribution point to an attachment point on your property.
- This drop must meet our specifications, including clearance from the ground and distance from electric service facilities.
- If possible, the connecting span should not cross any adjacent properties.
PG&E must approve the locations of all transformers and meters. We must also approve the sizes, types and quantities of conduit.
- Find preferred electric meter locations. Visit Electric and Gas Services Requirements.
- Download New Electric Service for Your Agriculture Business (PDF).
- Download Electric Service: Overhead (PDF).
- Access our guide on electric from underground lines. Download Building and Renovation Services New Electric Service Power from Underground Lines (PDF).
- If you’re also requesting gas service, ensure that you have adequate separation between the gas and electric meters. For details,download Building and Renovation Services New Gas Service (PDF).
Note: We recommend that you hire a qualified electrician to help you avoid common problems in installing electrical panels.
Am I required to be on location when my electric meter is set?
No. You don't have to be present when your electric meter is set. However:
- The meter must be accessible to our crews.
- If your electrical panel is energized by jumpers from an old panel, the jumpers must be removed by a licensed electrician before we can set the meter.
Am I required to excavate a trench when I start my project?
We recommend that you hire a qualified trenching contractor to help avoid common problems.
- Read our guide to get started. Download Building and Renovation Services Trenching (PDF).
My trench is finished. How do I get my trench inspected?
Contact your PG&E account representative for the phone number to your local trench inspection desk.
Your local trench inspection desk can help you schedule an appointment with a PG&E trench inspector.
- You must be present during the trench inspection appointment.
- After the inspection is complete, the inspector provides you or your trenching contractor with the results.
- You are notified if any other work is needed to complete your project.
