Permits for Events Using Generators

Proper Procedure for Pulling Permits for Events that Use Generators for Power

It is the responsibility of the licensed electrical contractor to not only ground the generator being used for the event, but al the wiring from the generator to the different venues.  There have been events in the past at which the electrical contractor did the grounding and the customer pulled the rest of the wiring to the different areas.  This is not acceptable to the City of St. Louis.  If you pull the permit for the installation, then your company is responsible for all wiring done for that permit.

The wiring methods for the generator, the grounding, and the wiring methods run from the generator are all covered by the NEC.  Articles 445, 250, 525, 590 and 400 have something to do with the wiring methods used for events requiring a generator for their power supply.  When the electrician is finished wiring the generator, the City's Building Division Electrical Inspection Office must be notified that the job is complete and ready for inspection.  The City understands that most of these type of events are on weekends and are not ready until evening or the weekend, but it is necessary that the electrical contractor is available to meet the inspector for the inspection.  If a problem is found, and the event's electrical contractor is not there to correct it, the City may have to shut down that portion of the event until the corrections are made.

Together we can make all events using generators for power safe for those holding the event and the public attending the event.

For more information, contact Jerry Feagans, Chief Electrical Inspector, at (314) 622-3326.