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How to Set Up a Temporary Power Pole for Eaton Fire Victims in Altadena

·4 mins
Temporary Power Altadena Eaton Fire SCE Construction
Table of Contents

Introduction #

This handbook provides guidance specifically for Eaton Fire victims in Altadena who need temporary power for rebuilding projects within Southern California Edison (SCE) territory.

TL;DR? Skip to the “TPP Quick Checklist” section at the end for a condensed list of steps.

Understanding the Players #

There are three main entities involved in setting up temporary power:

  1. Temporary Power Pole Company: Installs the physical power pole with electrical panel and outlets
  2. Southern California Edison (SCE): The utility company that connects electrical service to the pole
  3. Local Building & Safety Department: Inspects and approves the installation (LA County for unincorporated areas)

Cost Overview (As of 2025) #

Expect to pay for:

  • Power pole installation: $700-800 (one-time fee)
  • SCE connection fee: Approximately $437 (one-time fee)
  • Monthly pole rental: $50-60 per month
  • Monthly electricity usage: Varies based on consumption

Key Process Overview #

Initial Setup #

Contact SCE to create a service request and get a commercial account number. An SCE planner from Monrovia will determine the pole location. Get quotes from several temporary power pole companies (like A-Co Temporary Power at 818-255-3560, but shop around for competitive offers). Complete SCE paperwork, arrange payment, and schedule installation.

Installation and Inspection #

Once the pole is installed, schedule an inspection with LA County. After passing inspection, notify SCE so they can connect power, which typically takes 2-8 weeks.

Important Notes #

  • Always mention you’re an Eaton Fire victim in all communications
  • The Monrovia Planning Office (626-303-8489) often routes to voicemail; be persistent
  • Ask about the current process for submitting forms, as email addresses may change
  • Having both 110V and 220V outlets is essential for most construction needs

Keep documentation of all communications, payments, and approvals throughout the process.

Important Documentation for SCE Process #

Keep copies of these essential documents:

  • SCE Service Request Number
  • Commercial Account Number
  • SCE Invoice and payment confirmation
  • Completed DS-111 form
  • Completed CSD-274 form
  • Power pole company invoice and contract
  • Building inspection approval

SCE-Specific Tips for Eaton Fire Victims #

  • Set Clear Expectations: The entire process typically takes 6-10 weeks from application to energized service with SCE
  • Mention Eaton Fire: Always mention you are an Eaton Fire victim in all communications
  • Regular Follow-ups: If you don’t hear from an SCE planner within 7 days of creating your service request, call 1-800-655-4555
  • Monrovia Planning Office: Be persistent with the Monrovia office (626-303-8489) if your planner is hard to reach
  • Documentation: Send all communications to SCE via email when possible to maintain a paper trail
  • Mutual Support: Stay in contact with other Eaton Fire victims to share experiences and tips

Common Issues with SCE Temporary Power #

  • Delayed Response: SCE planners handle many requests - follow up weekly if you don’t receive a response
  • Missing Information: Incomplete DS-111 or CSD-274 forms will delay your application
  • Location Disputes: If you disagree with the SCE planner’s pole location recommendation, address this early
  • Billing Confusion: Temporary power is billed as a commercial account - contact SCE Commercial Services for billing questions

TPP Quick Checklist for Eaton Fire Victims #

  1. Create SCE Service Request

    • Call SCE: 1-800-655-4555
    • Request temporary power pole (TPP) for Eaton Fire rebuild
    • Record service request number

  2. Get Commercial Account Number

    • Call SCE Commercial: 1-800-990-7788
    • Provide service request number
    • Get commercial account number assigned

  3. Meet with SCE Planner

    • Wait for call from Monrovia Planning Office (626-303-8489)
    • Schedule site visit to determine pole location
    • Follow their pole placement recommendation

  4. Get Pole Installation Quote

    • Request quotes from multiple companies (A-Co Temporary Power at 818-255-3560 is one option)
    • Shop around for competitive pricing and services
    • Request quote for 100A temporary power pole
    • Confirm 110V and 220V outlets included

  5. Complete SCE Forms

    • Fill out Customer/Project Information Sheet (DS-111)
    • Complete Temporary Service Contract (CSD-274)
    • Email to SCE - check with Monrovia Planning Office for current submission process
    • The email MonroviaTTPApps@sce.com may not be current - verify with your planner

  6. Pay SCE Connection Fee

    • Pay invoice (approximately $437)
    • Include document number with payment

  7. Schedule Pole Installation

    • Accept quote from pole company
    • Schedule installation date
    • Pay installation fee (approximately $700-800)

  8. Pole Installation

    • Power pole company installs pole at approved location
    • Verify outlets are working properly

  9. County Inspection

    • Contact LA County Building & Safety
    • Schedule inspection
    • Be present during inspection if possible
    • Get inspection approval

  10. Notify SCE of Inspection Approval

    • Call SCE planner directly
    • Or call 1-800-655-4555 with service request number
    • Provide inspection approval number

  11. SCE Connection (2-8 week wait)

    • SCE schedules meter installation and connection
    • Follow up weekly if delayed
    • Pole will be ready for use once connected

This guide is specific to Eaton Fire victims in Altadena served by Southern California Edison as of 2025. While the process outlined is accurate, always verify current requirements by contacting SCE directly at 1-800-655-4555.

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