🔌 What Is an Electrical Operating Permit — and Why Do You Need One?

In British Columbia, an Electrical Operating Permit is required for any facility where ongoing electrical maintenance, upgrades, or alterations take place. Issued by Technical Safety BC, this permit ensures that all electrical work is monitored by a licensed Field Safety Representative (FSR) and complies with the Safety Standards Act.

If you're a strata council, building owner, commercial operator, or facility manager, and electrical work is being done on a continuing basis — even minor upgrades — you are legally obligated to have this permit in place.

Failing to obtain an Operating Permit can result in:

  • Hefty fines and enforcement actions from Technical Safety BC

  • Inspection failures or occupancy delays

  • Increased liability in case of electrical incidents or insurance claims

Having a permit isn't just about checking a box — it's about protecting your building, your people, and your liability. At Good Electrical, we manage every step of this process for you — so you're always compliant, always ready for inspection, and never left guessing

🏢 Who Needs an Operating Permit?

If your facility is regularly maintained, upgraded, or modified electrically — you likely need an Electrical Operating Permit. This requirement applies to a wide range of building types and industries across BC.

You’re legally required to hold a permit if you operate:

  • Strata buildings and multi-unit residential complexes

  • Commercial properties (offices, shopping plazas, restaurants)

  • Private schools and education facilities

  • Industrial buildings, factories, and processing plants

  • Commercial greenhouses and agricultural operations

  • Warehouses and storage facilities

  • Healthcare clinics and labs

  • Hotels and hospitality spaces

  • Religious institutions (churches, temples, mosques)

  • Community centres and recreational facilities

⚠️ Don’t Assume You’re Exempt

Many building owners and managers don’t realize that even minor electrical work, like replacing light fixtures or servicing panels, requires an operating permit if it’s done on a continuing basis.

Without one, you risk Technical Safety BC enforcement, insurance problems, and delayed inspections.

🧰 How Good Electrical Supports Your Operating Permit

Managing an Operating Permit can be confusing and time-consuming — but it doesn’t have to be. At Good Electrical, we simplify the process by handling everything for you, from application to ongoing compliance.

Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

  • ✅ Permit Application & Setup
    We submit and manage your Operating Permit directly with Technical Safety BC — including registration, documentation, and FSR designation.

  • ✅ Certified Oversight (FSR Services)
    We act as your Field Safety Representative (FSR), ensuring all electrical work is code-compliant, safe, and properly documented.

  • ✅ Compliance Tracking & Logbook Management
    We maintain a detailed logbook with contractor declarations, maintenance records, and inspection history — so you're always inspection-ready.

  • ✅ Direct TSBC Liaison
    We handle all communication with Technical Safety BC on your behalf, including inspections, audits, and compliance notices.

  • ✅ Ongoing Support
    We offer continued oversight and guidance tailored to your site’s needs — so you can focus on running your property, not managing permits.

With Good Electrical, you’re not just getting a permit — you’re getting peace of mind

📘 Want to Learn More About Operating Permits?

Technical Safety BC provides detailed information on who needs an Electrical Operating Permit, how it works, and what’s required to stay compliant.

You can read the official guide here:
🔗 Technical Safety BC – Electrical Operating Permits

If you’re not sure whether your facility needs a permit — or just want to avoid the paperwork and stay inspection-ready — feel free to reach out. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and create a customized, industry-specific PDF tailored to your building or business type.

Whether you’re managing a strata, a private school, or a greenhouse — we’ll make sure you know exactly what’s required, and how to stay covered.

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