[You Need a Thneed]

Originally Posted by OMG!WTF!

Just read the link or quote from it Nuffy provided...

Specifically 4(2)(e) A permit is not required......for

the replacement of electrical equipment with units of a similar type if the

replacement is made for the purpose of maintaining the system and does

not modify the ratings or characteristics of the electrical installation.

But to specifically answer your question, no, altering the amount of current through an existing system while keeping within the already approved load parameters of that system doesn't require a permit. Specifically adding a lower draw light bulb is fine because the system is already approved for a draw of electricity between certain amounts. Changing a bulb doesn't change that.

The city's brochure for homeowner electrical permits specifically lists examples that you don't need a permit to replace: "switches, receptacles, light fixtures, breakers".