Security Camera Permit Requirements in Allen County, Indiana

Low voltage contractors installing security cameras in Allen County (Fort Wayne) need to understand local permit and licensing requirements. This guide covers everything from contractor licensing to privacy laws for video surveillance installations in Northeast Indiana.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for camera equipment. Security camera installations in Allen County typically do not require a dedicated permit for the camera equipment itself. However, all contractors must be licensed in Allen County, and electrical work may require permits.

Does Allen County Require Security Camera Permits?

Allen County does not require specific permits for standalone security camera installations. However, several requirements apply:

• Contractor licensing: All contractors and sub-contractors must be licensed
• Electrical permits: Required for new circuits or panel modifications
• Building permits: May be needed for structural mounting in some cases
• State plan review: Commercial projects require state-level design release

What Contractor Licensing Is Required?

Allen County has strict contractor licensing requirements:

Licensing Options

• Reciprocal license: Transfer a license from another jurisdiction
• Examination: Take an exam at an approved testing facility with Allen County sponsorship

License Types

License Type	Scope
Building Contractors	All construction activities, limited to 3 stories for new construction
Residential Contractors	1-2 family residences, not exceeding 2 stories
Home Improvement	Remodeling and repair of 1-2 family structures (no additions)

For complete Indiana licensing information, see our Indiana Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

How Do You Apply for Permits?

When permits are required for security camera projects:

1. Access online portal: Use the Allen County Citizen Access Portal
2. Obtain design release: State-level plan review for commercial projects
3. Submit application: Provide construction design release number
4. Schedule inspections: Use online inspection scheduling

Note: Allen County does not perform plan review locally—all reviews are done at the state level.

Contact Information

Department	Contact
Allen County Building Department	200 East Berry Street, Suite 180, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Phone	(260) 449-7131
Hours	Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
Licensing Specialist	Amanda Woenker
Online Permits	Citizen Access Portal

What Are the Fees and Timeline?

Fee Type	Details
Contractor License	Contact Building Department
Permit Fees	Based on project scope
State Plan Review	Required for commercial; separate fee

Permits submitted by licensed contractors online are processed in the order received.

What Privacy Laws Apply to Security Cameras?

Indiana privacy laws apply to security camera installations:

Reasonable Expectation of Privacy

Areas where video recording is prohibited:

• Bathrooms and restrooms
• Locker rooms
• Bedrooms
• Changing areas
• Any area with reasonable privacy expectation

Acceptable Recording Areas

• Front and side of property (public view)
• Common areas with proper notice
• Commercial spaces with signage
• Parking lots and entrances

Audio Recording

Indiana is a one-party consent state. At least one party must consent to audio recording.

What Are Residential vs Commercial Differences?

Residential Installations

• Licensed contractor required for hired work
• Homeowners may self-permit for their own work
• No camera-specific permit typically required
• Electrical permit only if adding new circuits

Commercial Installations

• State-level plan review required
• Construction design release number needed
• Licensed contractor mandatory
• Privacy signage recommended
• Employee notification of surveillance

Homeowner Self-Permit Rules

Allen County allows homeowners to obtain permits for their own work with restrictions:

• If hiring any contractor, that contractor must be licensed
• Contractor must obtain their own permit for their work portion
• Homeowner cannot permit work done by unlicensed contractors

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Get licensed first: Allen County requires all contractors to be licensed
• Use reciprocity: Transfer existing license from another jurisdiction if possible
• Plan for state review: Commercial projects need state-level design release
• Use online portal: Submit permits through Citizen Access for faster processing
• Document consent: Get property owner permission in writing
• Consider audio carefully: One-party consent can still create liability

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Allen County before they reach bid boards?

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Indiana and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Allen County

We're building out permit guides for all project types in Allen County. Check back soon for:

• Fire Alarm Permits in Allen County
• Access Control Permits in Allen County
• Structured Cabling Permits in Allen County