Building Control

Electrical Meters

When a new or upgraded electrical meter can be installed and what must be included with the application.

Before BELCO can switch on a meter: a Certificate of Completion and Occupancy, either Partial or Full depending on the scope of works, must have been issued by the Department of Planning.

1

When You Can Apply

  • Installing a meter for an approved dwelling unit — each approved dwelling unit must have a separate meter
  • Replacing a meter as part of a renovation involving electrical work
  • Upgrading the power supply, for example from 100A to 200A
  • Installing a utility meter for common equipment in a multi-dwelling property, such as communal laundry facilities, water or booster pumps, shared lighting or HVAC systems
  • Installing a net meter following a photovoltaic solar panel installation

Guest units, pool houses and similar spaces. These are not considered separate dwellings and require planning approval for conversion to a residential unit before an additional meter can be installed.

How to Apply

All applications, whether a Commercial or Residential Building Permit or a Permitted Development Permit, must be submitted through the Department’s Customer Self-Service portal. You must have a registered CSS account before submitting.

1

Permit Description

State the requirement and purpose of the meter, for example an upgrade from 100A to 200A.

2

Location Plan

Show roads, access points and neighbouring properties, with the subject property boundary highlighted in red.

3

Site Plan

Show property boundaries and clearly label the proposed and/or existing BELCO meter locations.

4

Photographs

Provide a close-up of the existing meter or proposed location and a wider view showing its relationship to the building or site.

Supporting Letter

If the application is for an additional meter rather than a replacement or upgrade, include a short letter explaining the purpose of the meter.

If the meter forms part of a larger project, permit drawings, details and specifications should follow the applicable Building Code submission requirements.