Access Control Permit Requirements in Adams County, Colorado

Quick Answer: Access control installations in Adams County, Colorado typically do not require permits for low voltage systems under 50 volts. However, gate operators, electric fences, and systems requiring electrical work above 50V may need permits through Adams County Development Services. Contractors must register with the county for permit work.

When Are Permits Required?

Adams County follows Colorado's approach to low voltage work:

Permits Generally NOT Required:

• Card reader and credential systems under 50V
• Keypad entry systems
• Magnetic door locks on low voltage
• Biometric access readers
• Intercom systems with electric release
• Standalone door controllers

Permits ARE Required:

• Motorized gate operators
• Electric fence systems
• Systems requiring new electrical circuits (120V+)
• Barrier arm systems
• Structural modifications for gate installation

Online Permit Services

Adams County offers electronic permitting:

• E-Permit Center for online applications
• 24/7 permit submission
• "Eye on Adams" tracking tool
• Electronic fee payment

Contact Information

Adams County Development Services
4430 S. Adams County Parkway
Brighton, CO 80601
Website: adcogov.org

Contractor Registration

Adams County requires contractor registration:

• Complete registration application
• Provide insurance documentation
• Required before pulling permits

Fees and Timeline

Permit Type	Estimated Fee	Processing Time
Contractor Registration	Contact county	1-2 weeks
Electrical Permit	Based on valuation	3-5 business days
Building Permit (gates)	Based on valuation	2-4 weeks
Low voltage only	No permit required	N/A

Municipalities Within Adams County

Cities have their own permit processes:

• Westminster: Contact Westminster Building Division
• Thornton: Thornton Building Department
• Northglenn: Northglenn permits
• Commerce City: Commerce City Building
• Brighton: Brighton Building Department

Residential vs. Commercial Access Control

Residential Projects

• Smart locks and keypads: No permits typically needed
• Driveway gates: May require permit for motor
• HOA approval often required

Commercial Projects

• ADA compliance required
• Fire alarm integration needs coordination
• Emergency egress requirements must be met
• Knox Box may be required by fire authority

Fire and Life Safety Requirements

• Emergency Egress: All egress doors must release on fire alarm
• Fail-Safe: Egress doors must unlock on power failure
• Fire Lane Access: Gates must not impede fire department

Special Considerations for Adams County

• DIA Proximity: Properties near airport may have restrictions
• Industrial Zones: Commerce City industrial areas
• New Development: Rapidly growing areas
• HOAs: Many communities have review requirements

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Verify Jurisdiction: Confirm if in county or municipality
• E-Permit Center: Use online system for efficiency
• Register First: Complete contractor registration before permits
• Eye on Adams: Track permit status online

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when access control projects hit permits in Adams County before they reach bid boards?

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Related Permit Guides

• Adams County Security Camera Permit Requirements
• Adams County Fire Alarm Permit Requirements
• Denver Access Control Permit Requirements
• Colorado Low Voltage Contractor License Guide

Official Resources

• Adams County Building Permits
• Adams County Official Website