The cost depends on the type of equipment and type of approval. Fees are based on the LAMC fee ordinance. Please contact ETL at 323-224-2168 to get an accurate quote for the evaluation process.
How soon can you evaluate my equipment after I have paid for the application?
Time frame depends on current workload backlog. Please call ETL at (323) 224-2168 for the current backlog.
I am using listed components in my panel. Why do I need approval for the panel?
The overall system needs to be evaluated and approved, not just individual components.
The equipment has not been built yet. Can you approve the design of the equipment?
No. The design of the equipment can be reviewed, but the approval can only be issued after satisfactory evaluation and testing of the equipment.
What are the different types of approval?
Different types of approval are: Laboratory Approval, Field One-Time Approval, and General Approval
What are the hours of operation for the Electrical Testing Lab (ETL)?
Monday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Tuesday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Thursday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Friday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
What can I do if my equipment is not listed by a City of LA recognized testing laboratory?
An application for the Electrical Test Lab (ETL) may be submitted for evaluation.
What can I do if some of the components in my equipment are not listed by a City of LA recognized testing laboratory?
All major critical components in the equipment need to be recognized and/or listed by a City of Los Angeles recognized testing laboratory.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Personal, company or a cashier's check from a United States bank, made payable to "City of Los Angeles."
What happens if my equipment does not pass the evaluation?
A letter of correction will be issued, either asking for additional information or indicating what tests or evaluations did not pass and may necessitate changes or modifications to the equipment.
What information do you need at the time of application submittal?
Current product literature, owner’s manual, schematic wiring diagrams and parts list, installation instruction (if applicable), and a production sample of the equipment with all the options and accessories.
What is a UL Standard?
UL Standard is an Underwriters Laboratories standard used as the basis of evaluation and testing of equipment.
What is LARR?
LARR stands for "Los Angeles Research Reports." LADBS approves alternate building materials or products that are at least equivalent to the materials prescribed in the code in terms of quality, effective time period of fire resistance, strength, effectiveness, durability and safety.
What is the difference between the "General" and "One-Time" approval?
General or laboratory approval is generally for identical mass produced equipment with a one-year approval time, after which a re-evaluation would be required for another one-year period, if the applicant would like to maintain approval.
What is the phone number for Electrical Testing Lab (ETL)?
Tel: (323) 224-2168
Fax: (323) 224-2161
What type of electrical equipment requires approval from the City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS)?
All electrical equipment sold, installed or advertised for sale in the City of Los Angeles shall be approved by the LA Department of Building and Safety (LADBS).
What type of testing do you perform on the electrical equipment?
Electrical equipment is evaluated in accordance with the requirements of National Electrical Code (NEC) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards.
Who can apply for equipment approval?
The equipment manufacturer (for general or one-time approval) and end user of the equipment (for one-time approval) can apply for equipment approval.
Will I need to send a sample of the equipment for evaluation?
Yes. In all cases, you are required to provide the equipment for evaluation.