Does Harris require homeowner, not electrictian, to pull permits?

Trying to get a power drop redone as its started to fall. The electrician is trying to charge over 3000 saying we also need to replace our breaker box. Apparently the cost doesn't include permits which they claim in harris county homeowners are responsible for the permit not the contractor. Ive never heard of anything like this and feel like the company is pretty much trying to scam us.

Edit: Didn't want to name the company but f**k it, Mr. Electric