What to expect during a panel upgrade
A service change is a scheduled process, not a surprise outage. The details belong to your electrician, Building Services, and Rocky Mountain Power — but the shape of the day is consistent enough to walk through in advance.
Before the outage
The useful work starts days or weeks earlier: an on-site look, a load calculation, a written scope, and a Salt Lake City electrical permit through the Citizen Access Portal at slcpermits.com. If the meter must come out, the electrician schedules a Rocky Mountain Power disconnect. Those steps are explained in more detail in the permits and process guide.
During the work
On the scheduled day, utility personnel perform the physical meter disconnect. The existing panel is removed or replaced, circuits are landed in the new equipment, and any agreed meter-base, mast, or grounding work is completed. The house is typically without power for that window. This site does not invent a standard duration. Ask what will happen with refrigerators, sump pumps, and any medical devices, and whether a temporary setup is part of the scope.
Inspection and reconnect
Rocky Mountain Power’s service requirements state that a city, county, or state electrical inspection is typically required before the utility reconnects service. In Salt Lake City, that inspection is arranged through Building Services. After a pass, the utility restores service. If the inspector writes a correction, the reconnect waits until that item is cleared.
Related reading: 100-amp to 200-amp upgrades, cost ranges, and the guides hub.
Frequently asked questions
How long will the power be off?
There is no official hour count on the Rocky Mountain Power or Building Services pages reviewed for this site. Power is typically off during a service change that requires a meter disconnect. Your electrician should explain the likely window after the utility disconnect is scheduled. It is not a guaranteed calendar.
Who is allowed to disconnect the meter?
Rocky Mountain Power’s Electric Service Requirements say physical disconnects are done by Power Company personnel, and that customers are not authorized to work on, remove, or interfere with the company’s meter. Do not pull the meter yourself.
When does the city inspection happen?
A city, county, or state electrical inspection is typically required before the utility reconnects service. In Salt Lake City, inspections are scheduled through the Citizen Access Portal after the work is ready. Confirm the current steps with Building Services and your electrician.
Do I need to be home?
Usually yes, or you need to arrange access, because the power will be off and the electrician and, later, the inspector need to reach the panel and meter. Ask the contractor how they handle pets, food in the refrigerator, and medical equipment that cannot lose power.
Request a quote
A local licensed electrician can look at your panel, service, and planned loads and give you a written scope. There is no obligation to hire anyone.