Thinking of hiding your electrical panel in a closet in Ottawa? Unfortunately, Ontario’s Electrical Safety Code won’t allow it. In this guide, we’ll explain the code requirements for panel placement, safe alternative locations, and what installation costs you can expect—so you can keep your home safe and inspection-ready.
At LB Electric, we help Ottawa homeowners and businesses find the right location for their panels. Our licensed electricians make sure your panel is securely fastened, easy to reach, and follows all building permits and safety rules.
Learn more about our electrical panel service and upgrades.
Why Closets Aren’t Allowed
A closet is not a safe structure for a panel for several reasons:
- Flammable materials: Closets often contain clothes or other items that can catch fire.
- Blocked access: It’s hard for a person to get to a panel quickly in an emergency if it’s hidden behind clothes or a door.
- Poor air flow: Closets don’t give proper support for heat or ventilation. Closets don’t allow adequate heat dissipation or ventilation.
According to the Canadian Electrical Code, a panel must be installed in a way that keeps it protected and readily accessible. You need at least 1 meter of clear space in front, and it can’t be behind furniture or storage items.
Best Places to Install a Panel
Here are common panel locations that meet building code:
- Basement: Offers a good surface, often made of concrete, and enough space for installation.
- Garage: Usually provides wide open areas with fewer obstacles.
- Utility or service room: Designed for equipment, these rooms are the best place to put similar appliances like furnaces and hot water tanks.
Panels must be installed at or below grade level and cannot be placed above ceiling tiles, under staircases, or behind inaccessible walls. They should also be kept a safe distance from windows, bathtubs, and heating appliances, with the required clearance maintained at all times.
Requirements for Electrical Panel Placement
To follow the code, a panel must:
- Be in an open position so anyone can reach the circuit breakers.
- Sit at a proper height, usually eye level for an average person.
- Be mounted on a solid surface, like concrete, drywall, or a wall with solid backing.
- Be installed with proper connection to the home’s ground system.
- Not be located inside or above a bathroom, shower, or any high-moisture area.
- Be part of the home’s permanent structure and not in a temporary or makeshift space.
Cost of Panel Installation in Ottawa
In Ottawa, a basic panel installation or upgrade (for example, going from 100 amps to 200 amps) typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,000. More involved projects, especially in older homes that require rewiring, can cost $8,000 or more.
You may also need a building permit, which runs approximately $100–$500+, depending on your municipality and the scope of work. LB Electric coordinates with the City of Ottawa to ensure every installation passes inspection and fully complies with local regulations.
LB Electric works with the City of Ottawa to make sure every installation meets inspection rules and is completed in accordance with the city’s rules.
FAQ
Where can you not put an electrical panel?
You cannot install an electrical panel in closets, bathrooms, above ceilings, stairwells, or areas with flammable appliance storage. The location must have enough space for the panel to function properly, and it cannot be used for storage or other equipment. The area must be readily accessible, and it must accommodate the panel’s size and function without obstruction, and it must remain readily accessible.
What are the rules for electrical panel location in Canada?
Canadian code requires that an electrical panel must be readily accessible for quick operation. It should be mounted at a proper grade height where it’s easy to operate. The panel should not be placed where water, steam, or fire could be a problem. It must also be installed in compliance with local building code requirements.
Special measures must be taken to ensure the panel is not in a location that could be exposed to hazards like moisture or extreme heat. The means of access should be clear, with a minimum clearance to allow for continuous operation and maintenance.
Can you have an electrical outlet in a closet in Canada?
Yes, outlets are permitted in closets, provided they’re installed safely on the correct circuit and do not create a fire risk or interfere with storage.
Can a breaker box be in a closet or bathroom?
No. This is not a permitted location due to moisture and safety risks. Electrical components must be in dry, safe areas with no exposure to steam or water lines.
Why Choose LB Electric?
At LB Electric, we’ve been helping Ottawa homeowners and businesses with electrical work for years. We follow the right methods, use proper tools, and make sure your panel is safe and easy to use. We work with your local corporation, handle building permits, and guide you through the installation process from start to finish.
We also help create new panel specifications for home additions, commercial spaces, and full home renovations. Every panel we install is equipped with proper protection and can handle modern appliances like EV chargers, stoves, and similar systems.
Safe Panel Placement Matters
Installing a panel in the wrong location can delay your project, cause a failed inspection, or even put your home at risk. Always place your electrical panel in a suitable area that allows easy access, meets the building code, and keeps your home protected.
Got questions about your electrical panel or need help with a new installation in Ottawa? Contact LB Electric today to get expert advice, fair pricing, and top-quality service.
