Security Camera Permit Requirements in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Quick Answer: Ann Arbor, Michigan generally does not require building permits for security camera installations. Low voltage surveillance systems are exempt from electrical permit requirements under Michigan law. However, contractors installing security cameras commercially must hold a Security Alarm Contractor license from Michigan LARA, and monitored alarm systems require a $37 annual alarm permit registration.

Do You Need a Permit for Security Cameras in Ann Arbor?

For most security camera installations in Ann Arbor, no building permit is required. Michigan law exempts low voltage work from electrical permit requirements, and security camera systems fall under this exemption.

However, there are important distinctions:

System Type	Permit Required	Notes
Standalone CCTV/IP Cameras	No	Low voltage exempt
Monitored Alarm System	Yes - Alarm Permit	$37 annual fee
Camera + Alarm Integration	Yes - Alarm Permit	If professionally monitored
Structural Modifications	Yes - Building Permit	Cutting walls, roof mounts

When Permits ARE Required

Monitored alarm systems - Ann Arbor requires alarm permit registration for systems connected to monitoring services
Structural work - If installation requires cutting into exterior walls, roof penetrations, or major structural modifications
Electrical panel connections - Any 120V work requires an electrical permit and licensed electrician

Alarm Permit Registration in Ann Arbor

If your security camera system is part of a monitored alarm system, you must register with the city:

Annual Fee: $37
Purpose: Registers your system with local emergency services
Benefit: Enables faster emergency response and reduces false alarm fines

False alarm fees can add up quickly without proper registration. Most jurisdictions charge escalating fines for repeated false alarms.

Ann Arbor Building Department Contact

City of Ann Arbor Planning and Development
301 E. Huron Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Permits Portal: City of Ann Arbor Permits

Michigan Contractor Licensing Requirements

If you are a contractor installing security cameras for customers in Michigan, licensing requirements apply.

Security Alarm Contractor License

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) requires a Security Alarm Contractor license for businesses that install, maintain, or monitor security alarm systems. This includes many security camera installations, particularly those integrated with alarm systems.

Requirements:

Experience: 3 years as a contractor or 4 years in a supervisory role with an existing contractor
Surety Bond: $25,000
Insurance: $25,000 property damage, $100,000/$200,000 liability
License Fee: $500
Background Check: Required for qualifying agents

Licensing Portal: Michigan LARA Security Alarm Contractors

When a License is NOT Required

Michigan does not require a security alarm contractor license for:

Homeowners installing their own systems
Standalone camera-only systems without alarm monitoring
IT/network contractors installing IP cameras as part of network infrastructure (in some interpretations)

For complete licensing information, see our guide to Michigan Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements.

Michigan Security Camera Privacy Laws

Beyond permits, security camera installations in Ann Arbor must comply with Michigan privacy laws.

Where Cameras Are Legal

Your own property (residential or commercial)
Public areas (parking lots, lobbies, storefronts)
Common areas with proper notice to occupants
Business entrances and exits

Where Cameras Are Prohibited

Bathrooms and restrooms
Locker rooms and changing areas
Private offices without consent
Any area with reasonable expectation of privacy
Neighboring properties without permission

Audio Recording Rules

Michigan is a one-party consent state for audio recording. This means:

You can record conversations you are part of
You cannot secretly record conversations between others
For security cameras with audio, post clear signage notifying visitors

Reference: MCL 750.539d - Michigan Eavesdropping Law

Residential vs Commercial Installations

Residential Security Cameras

Homeowners in Ann Arbor can install security cameras without permits in most cases. Typical residential projects include:

Doorbell cameras (Ring, Nest, etc.)
Exterior perimeter cameras
Garage and driveway monitoring
Backyard and pool area surveillance
Indoor cameras for pet/child monitoring

DIY Considerations:

Use weatherproof housings for outdoor cameras
Ensure proper cable ratings for outdoor runs
Position cameras to avoid capturing neighbors property
Consider PoE (Power over Ethernet) to simplify installation

Commercial Security Cameras

Commercial installations in Ann Arbor typically require professional installation and may involve:

Integration with access control systems
Network infrastructure for IP cameras
NVR/DVR server room setup
Central monitoring station connections
Compliance with industry-specific regulations (retail, healthcare, etc.)

For commercial projects, working with a licensed Security Alarm Contractor ensures compliance with Michigan regulations.

Installation Best Practices

Camera Placement

Entry points: Cover all doors and accessible windows
Driveways and parking: Capture vehicle and facial details
Height: Mount 8-10 feet high to prevent tampering
Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting or use IR-capable cameras
Angle: Avoid direct sunlight that can wash out images

Cabling Standards

Use Cat6 or Cat6a for IP camera runs
Outdoor cables should be rated for direct burial or use conduit
Keep cable runs under 328 feet (100 meters) for Ethernet
Use plenum-rated cable in commercial air handling spaces

Documentation

Even without permit requirements, maintain records:

Camera locations and specifications
Network configuration details
Login credentials (stored securely)
Warranty information
Maintenance schedule

Pro Tips from Experienced Installers

1. Plan for adequate storage. High-resolution cameras generate large files. Calculate your storage needs based on camera count, resolution, and retention requirements.

2. Use PoE switches. Power over Ethernet simplifies installation by eliminating separate power supplies at each camera location.

3. Secure your system. Change default passwords, keep firmware updated, and segment camera traffic on your network.

4. Consider future expansion. Run extra cables or conduit during initial installation to accommodate additional cameras later.

5. Post signage. "Premises under video surveillance" signs deter crime and satisfy legal notification requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install security cameras myself in Ann Arbor?

Yes, homeowners can install their own security cameras without a license. No permit is typically required for camera-only systems. However, if integrating with a monitored alarm, you will need to register for an alarm permit.

Do I need a license to install security cameras for others?

If you are installing security systems commercially, especially those with monitoring services, you likely need a Michigan Security Alarm Contractor license from LARA. Camera-only installations without alarm integration exist in a gray area.

Are there restrictions on where I can point my cameras?

Yes. Cameras must not capture areas where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as bathrooms, changing rooms, or neighbors windows. Keep cameras focused on your own property.

What happens if I install a monitored system without an alarm permit?

You may face fines for false alarms, and emergency response may be delayed. The $37 annual fee is worth the registration benefits.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Michigan and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.

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Related Permit Guides

Last updated: January 2026. Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the Ann Arbor Building Department and Michigan LARA before starting your project.