What is a temporary power pole?
A temporary power pole, sometimes called a temp pole or spider box on a stick, is a freestanding post with a meter socket, breaker panel and outlets that gives a job site power before the building has its own permanent service. Builders in construction site services usually order one at the same time they order a roll-off dumpster rental and a bank of toilets, since all three show up in the same early site-prep phase. The pole itself is set in a footing, wired to code, and inspected. Most residential jobs in Kendall run a 200 amp temporary power pole, sized to handle saws, compressors and lighting during framing. Commercial jobs sometimes need higher capacity, which changes the installation cost and the inspection timeline.
Who installs a temporary power pole?
A licensed electrician installs and wires the pole; the utility company sets the meter and energizes it after inspection. Kendall Porta Pros does not do the electrical work, but we coordinate delivery of everything around it, including temporary fence rental to secure the equipment yard and light tower rental for jobs running past daylight. Installing temporary power pole equipment usually means a permit, a footing inspection, and a final utility inspection before power flows. Placement matters: the pole needs clear access for the meter reader and enough separation from foot traffic that it doesn't become a hazard next to a portable toilet rental or dumpster staging area. OSHA 1926.404(b)(1)(ii) requires ground fault circuit interrupter protection on construction sites, which applies to the temporary circuits run off that pole once power is live.
How much does a temporary power pole installation cost?
Temporary power pole installation cost depends on amperage, trenching distance and whether the utility needs new infrastructure to reach the site. A 200 amp temporary power pole for a single-family build typically costs less than a 400 amp commercial setup with a longer run. Ask your electrician for a temporary power pole diagram before the footing goes in, since that drawing is what the inspector checks against. While that work is scheduled, most contractors line up their standard porta potty rental or check porta potty rental cost so both trades land on site the same week. A construction temporary power pole and a bank of toilets on the same delivery run save a trip charge for everyone involved.
| item | timing note |
|---|---|
| permit application | before footing dug |
| footing inspection | before pole wired |
| electrician wiring | after footing passes |
| utility meter set | after final inspection |
Sites near Pinecrest, 3.5 miles east of Kendall, and Palmetto Bay, 5.6 miles southeast, follow the same permit-then-inspect sequence, though utility response time can vary by neighborhood. For a full sanitation and site setup checklist, see the porta potty rental checklist and the general construction site services page, which covers dumpsters, fencing and toilets as one package.
How long does it take to get a temporary power pole approved?
Timing depends on permit review and the utility's inspection queue, both of which vary by jurisdiction and are not something we track. Ask your electrician for their typical turnaround. Many contractors order emergency porta potty rental or a handwashing station rental to keep crews working while they wait.
Does a temporary power pole need a permit?
Generally yes, since it involves electrical work and a utility connection, but exact requirements are set by the local building department. Confirm directly rather than assuming; the same caution applies to dumpster permit requirements and porta potty permit requirements on the same job site.
Can I rent a temporary power pole from Kendall Porta Pros?
No. We rent portable restroom rental units, storage container rental, fencing and dumpsters, not electrical equipment. We coordinate delivery timing with your electrician so both trades hit the site window.
What amperage do most construction sites need?
A 200 amp temporary power pole covers most residential builds. Commercial sites with heavier equipment may need more; your electrician sizes it based on the load, similar to how how many porta potties do i need sizes toilet count to crew headcount.
Where does the power pole go relative to other site equipment?
Set it clear of delivery paths and foot traffic. A roll-off dumpster rental needs about 60 feet of straight clearance behind the truck, so plan the pole location before scheduling drop-off, and coordinate with temporary fence rental placement too.
Next step
Get a delivery date
Tell us the address, the dates and the headcount. We size the order and confirm the route.