Electric Service Requirements

Electrical Service Requirements are a guide for electrical installations in the City of Palo Alto. The document is designed for utilities' customers, contractors, architects, and engineers. It provides the minimum installation requirements for all new and remodeled residential and commercial property. Observing these regulations can help reduce design costs and expedite the processing time to review and approve your plans.

The Utilities Department establishes electrical standards that enable the Electric Utility to supply uniform, satisfactory, and safe service to customers in the City of Palo Alto. These regulations may differ from those of PG&E and other electric companies. Therefore, please note that standards set by other utilities may not be acceptable within our jurisdiction.

Electric Service Requirements will assist both the planning and construction phases of your electrical installation. For easy referral, each section details important procedures and specifications. A glossary, index, specification drawings, and other references are also included.

In addition to these requirements, each customer is also responsible for complying with the National Electric Code and all applicable regulations of the State of California.

These documents can also be purchased in book form at Revenue Collections, 1st floor, 250 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94301, (650) 329-2317. For any questions regarding utility requirements, call (650) 566-4502.

References

Section I - Temporary Service Requirements

Section II - Residential Underground & Overhead Service

Section III - Commercial Secondary Service Requirements

Section IV - Commercial Primary Service Requirements

Section V - Multi-family Service Requirements

Section VI - Subdivision Service Requirements

Standard Drawings

Applications

Glossary

Last Updated: Oct 2, 2012