Electrical permit and inspection for illuminated signs: Los Angeles restaurant guide
LADBS
What it is
An illuminated sign is electrical work: besides the LADBS sign (building) permit, the sign's wiring and lighting need an LADBS electrical permit pulled by a licensed electrical contractor and a final electrical inspection.
When a restaurant needs it
Any lit sign — channel letters, cabinet signs, neon, LED.
How to apply
The C-10 electrical (or C-45 sign) contractor pulls the electrical permit through PermitLA (Express Permit) or with the sign plan check, then requests the electrical inspection after installation.
Documents you’ll need
- Electrical permit application
- Sign electrical details (circuit, disconnect, UL listing)
- Contractor license number
Good to know
Lighting systems subject to the California Energy Code can trigger electrical plan check — ask the sign contractor whether your sign qualifies for an Express Permit.
Official source
LADBS — electrical permits · LADBS — express permits (PermitLA)
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.