If your electrical panel is outdated or overloaded, it may be time for an upgrade. Common reasons include:
- Adding an EV charger or solar system
- Tripped breakers or dimming lights
- Home renovations or appliance upgrades
- Old fuse boxes or panels under 100 amps
Before starting, you must get an electrical permit and coordinate with PG&E if your service connection changes.
For general permit info, visit our electrical permit rules in Berkeley hub guide.
Do You Need a Permit for a Panel Upgrade?
Yes. In Berkeley, you need an electrical permit for any service panel upgrade, even if the location stays the same. The permit ensures your upgrade meets local and state code.
Projects that also increase the electrical load or move the meter location require PG&E involvement.
Step-by-Step Panel Upgrade Process
Here’s how the full process works from start to finish:
- Apply for an electrical permit using the Berkeley Online Permit Portal.
- Submit plans if you’re upgrading above 200 amps or changing the meter location.
- Contact PG&E if your upgrade changes service capacity, meter location, or requires a shutdown. Use their Service Planning Process.
- Complete the installation after your permit is approved.
- Schedule the city inspection through the permit portal.
- Get PG&E reconnection if they disconnected power for the work.
How Much Does a Panel Upgrade Cost?
Permit fees for panel upgrades in Berkeley range from $200 to $400. The total job cost (including labor and materials) depends on amperage, access, and PG&E service changes.
| Panel Size | Permit Fee |
|---|---|
| 100 Amp Upgrade | $200 – $250 |
| 200 Amp Upgrade | $250 – $350 |
| Above 200 Amps or Relocation | $350 – $400+ |
If PG&E service planning is required, allow extra time (1–3 weeks) for approval and scheduling.
Does PG&E Need to Be Involved?
PG&E must be involved if any of the following apply:
- You’re increasing your main panel amperage
- You’re moving the electric meter location
- You’re upgrading to solar and backfeeding the grid
- You’re installing an EV charger that requires load adjustments
You can begin the process at PG&E’s Electric Service Planning page. For most homes, this process starts with an online application and site plan upload.
Work with Momentum Electric
Momentum Electric takes care of both the city permit and PG&E process from start to finish. Our team manages service calculations, plan submittals, inspections, and final reconnection — helping you save time and avoid costly surprises along the way.
As a trusted electrician Oakland, we proudly serve Berkeley and the greater Bay Area with professional residential and commercial panel upgrades, including reliable electrical upgrades for Oakland homes. Call us today at (415) 559-3333.
City of Berkeley Permit Office Info
- Berkeley Permit Service Center
- 1947 Center Street, 3rd Floor, Berkeley, CA 94704
- Phone: (510) 981-7500
- Email: [email protected]
- Permit Portal: https://permits.berkeleyca.gov/CustomerSelfService