Temporary Power Pole Installation in Los Angeles

Get safe, inspection-ready temporary power for construction, ADUs, remodels, events, and film sets. RG Electric provides turnkey temporary power pole installation across Los Angeles, including site walk, load planning, permits, utility coordination, GFCI protection, and final removal when permanent service is ready.

Whether you are breaking ground on a new home, converting a garage to an ADU, staging an outdoor event, or powering a film production, you need temporary power that passes inspection and keeps people safe. Our licensed C-10 team installs California-code compliant temp poles, meter panels, grounding, and weatherproof distribution so crews can work without delays.

What is a Temporary Power Pole

A temporary power pole is a self-contained, freestanding structure designed to deliver electrical service on a job site or undeveloped property where permanent electrical infrastructure is not yet available. These poles are commonly used during construction, renovations, special events, or in any situation where power needs to be supplied at a location without an existing building. A typical temporary power pole setup includes essential components like a service mast, weatherhead, meter socket, main disconnect, circuit breakers, GFCI-protected receptacles for safety, and proper grounding to meet code requirements. At RG Electric, we carefully size each temporary service based on the specific electrical load demands of the project and strategically position the pole to ensure safe utility connection and efficient site accessibility for workers and equipment.

Who Uses Temporary Power in Los Angeles

Temporary power solutions are essential for a wide range of professionals and projects across Los Angeles. At RG Electric, we regularly provide temporary power setups for general contractors managing large-scale construction sites, owner-builders overseeing custom home projects, property managers coordinating multi-unit developments or major renovations, and event producers handling everything from street fairs to outdoor concerts. We also support location managers in the entertainment industry, where power needs are often complex and time-sensitive. Common scenarios where temporary power is crucial include new residential builds, accessory dwelling unit (ADU) and garage conversions, extensive remodels that require shutting off the main service, and outdoor hardscaping projects. Additionally, staging and landscaping crews, seasonal markets, festivals, and film or photo shoots rely on temporary power to operate distributed lighting, sound systems, and equipment, all while meeting tight deadlines and ensuring site safety.

Our Turnkey Installation Process

We begin with a brief consultation and site photos. During a site walk we confirm set location, clearances, and access for the utility. Our team prepares permit documents, coordinates inspections, and installs the pole and panel assembly with grounding and labeling. After the authority having jurisdiction approves the installation, we coordinate with the utility for meter set and energizing. When permanent service is ready, we de-energize and remove the temp equipment or convert distribution as needed.

Los Angeles projects often involve LADBS permits and coordination with the serving utility for meter release. We handle the paperwork, schedule inspections, and meet the inspector on site. For event power and film work, we can provide labeled distribution with weather rated cords and boxes and coordinate any required barricades or protection.

Safety, Code, and Inspection Details

Temporary does not mean makeshift. We build to the National Electrical Code and local amendments. That includes proper working clearances, correct conductor sizes, listed equipment, GFCI protection at receptacles, and verified grounding and bonding. We set the mast height to utility requirements, brace the pole for stability, and weatherproof all terminations. For multi-day events and construction sites, we route cords to minimize trip hazards and provide protective covers or raceways where traffic crosses.

If your project involves noisy loads, dust, or water, we select enclosures and devices with appropriate weather ratings. For night work and security, we can add temporary area lighting and dedicated circuits to support jobsite trailers, tools, and charging. If inspection notes call for corrections, we address them quickly and return documentation the same day where possible.

Service Sizes and Distribution Options

Most residential and light commercial projects use 100A or 200A temporary services, with a main breaker and spaces for dedicated circuits. We can add weather rated GFCI duplexes for general use, locking receptacles for tools, and spider boxes for flexible distribution. For productions or larger events, we design feeder runs and lay out multiple taps with labeling so departments connect safely without overloading a circuit.

If you expect a long schedule or phased scopes, we can plan a temporary sub-panel closer to the work area to reduce long cord runs and voltage drop. Where equipment draws are unknown, we meter usage during the first days and adjust distribution to keep operations smooth.

Timeline, Permits, and Utility Coordination

Lead time depends on permitting and the utility’s meter set schedule. Our role is to remove friction: we prepare the permit package, coordinate inspection, and submit the meter release. Once the utility energizes, you can power tools, trailers, and lighting immediately. When your permanent panel is approved, we schedule removal so you only pay for the time you need.

Costs and What Affects Price

Project cost varies with service size, distance to the work area, site conditions, distribution needs, protection requirements, and permit fees. Share a simple site sketch or photos of the proposed pole location, nearest utility point, and the work area when requesting a quote. We provide clear pricing up front, including options to add temporary lighting or additional distribution if your scope expands.

Related services to bundle

Temporary power is often the first step toward permanent upgrades. Ask about electrical panel upgrades, wiring and dedicated circuits, temporary and outdoor lighting, emergency electrical repairs, and commercial electrical services for a seamless handoff to permanent service.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit for a temporary power pole in Los Angeles?
In most cases yes. We prepare the permit, schedule the inspection, and submit the meter release to the serving utility.

How long does installation take?
Physical installation is typically fast once we are on site. The overall timeline is driven by permit and utility scheduling, which we coordinate for you.

Can you supply distribution boxes and cords?
Yes. We provide weather rated spider boxes, GFCI protection, and labeled circuits so crews can plug in safely.

What size temporary service do I need?
We size based on expected loads. Many residential projects work well at 100A, while larger sites and productions may need 200A or additional distribution.

Can you convert temporary power to permanent circuits later?
Often, yes. We can transition distribution to the permanent panel, add sub-panels, and provide final labeling when the project is ready.

Electrical work is hazardous. Consult a licensed electrician like RG Electric for inspections, permits, and code compliant installations.