Access Control Permit Requirements in Anne Arundel County, Maryland

Installing access control systems in Anne Arundel County requires understanding permit requirements, especially for magnetic locks on egress doors. This guide covers what contractors and building owners need to know about card reader, keypad, and electronic door lock permits in Anne Arundel County.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes for mag locks on egress doors. Anne Arundel County requires permits for the installation or modification of egress door access control systems with magnetic locks. This is classified as a Building Permit and requires Fire Marshal inspection. Other access control components may require electrical permits depending on the scope of work.

What Types of Access Control Systems Are Covered?

This guide applies to electronic access control installations including:

• Magnetic locks (mag locks) on egress doors
• Card readers (proximity, smart card, magnetic stripe)
• Key fob and badge systems
• Keypad and PIN entry systems
• Biometric readers (fingerprint, facial recognition)
• Electric door strikes
• Motorized gate operators
• Intercom and video intercom systems

What Is a Mag Lock Permit?

According to the Anne Arundel County Department of Inspections and Permits:

A Fire Alarm/Mag Lock system is a fire protection system featuring an alarm and an electrified locking device that uses low-voltage power to keep entrance doors secure. In the event of power failure, the maglock releases, allowing doors to open for safe exit.

Mag Lock Permit Classification

• Classified as a Building Permit
• Fee based on estimated value of work
• Requires Fire Marshal inspection
• Must comply with NFPA 101 Life Safety Code

What Are the Two Required Permits?

Similar to fire alarm systems, mag lock installations require two permits:

1. Devices Permit (Electrical)

• Covers low voltage wiring and device installation
• Inspected by the electrical inspector
• Must be completed BEFORE Fire Marshal inspection

2. System Permit (Fire Marshal)

• Covers the access control system as it relates to egress
• Inspected by the Fire Marshal
• Verifies compliance with NFPA 101 and NFPA 72

What Code Standards Apply?

Access control systems must comply with multiple codes per the Anne Arundel County Fire Prevention Code:

• NFPA 101 (2018 Edition): Life Safety Code - governs egress requirements
• NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm Code - for integration with fire systems
• Maryland State Fire Prevention Code
• Anne Arundel County Fire Prevention Code

Key Egress Requirements

Electromagnetically locked egress doors must:

• Release upon power failure (fail-safe operation)
• Release upon fire alarm activation
• Have clearly marked release mechanisms
• Not impede emergency egress
• Comply with ADA accessibility requirements

How Do You Apply for a Permit?

Effective December 1, 2025, all new permit applications require online submission via the Land Use Navigator (LUN) System.

Online Application

1. Access the Anne Arundel County permit portal
2. Select Fire Alarm/Mag Lock permit type
3. Enter application information
4. Upload required plans and documentation
5. Pay applicable fees

In-Person Application

Apply at the Permit Center where staff will assist with the LUN system. Bring required plans.

Mail Application

Send completed applications to:
2664 Riva Road, MS 6201
Attention: Permit Center
Annapolis, Maryland 21401

What Contractor Licenses Are Required?

Maryland Security Systems Agency License

The Maryland State Police requires a Security Systems Agency License for companies providing security systems services.

• Application fee: $150
• Background check and fingerprinting required
• $50,000 minimum liability insurance

Anne Arundel County Electrical License

Electrical work must be performed by contractors licensed in Anne Arundel County through the Board of Electrical Examiners.

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

What Are the Fees and Timeline?

Item	Cost	Notes
Mag Lock Building Permit	Based on project value	Varies by scope
Electrical Permit	$43+ application fee	For devices/wiring
Electrical Inspection	Included	Required before Fire Marshal
Fire Marshal Inspection	Included	Final approval

Residential vs. Commercial Installations

Residential Access Control

• Smart locks and keypads typically don't require permits
• Mag locks on exterior doors may have different requirements
• Contact county for specific residential guidance
• Alarm registration recommended if system includes monitoring

Commercial Access Control

• Mag lock permits required for egress door systems
• Two permits needed (electrical + Fire Marshal)
• Must comply with NFPA 101 Life Safety Code
• ADA accessibility requirements apply
• Fire alarm integration often required
• Licensed contractor required

What About Alarm Registration?

If your access control system includes alarm monitoring:

• Register with the Anne Arundel County False Alarm Reduction Program
• Commercial alarm registration is required
• Residential registration is optional but recommended
• Contact: 877-215-4592 or annearundel@alarm-billing.com

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Plan for two inspections: Electrical must pass before Fire Marshal inspection
• Know your egress codes: NFPA 101 compliance is critical for mag locks
• Fail-safe is mandatory: Mag locks must release on power failure and fire alarm
• Use the online system: LUN system required as of December 2025
• Coordinate with fire alarm: Access control often integrates with fire systems
• Document release mechanisms: Emergency egress release must be clearly marked

Key Contacts

Anne Arundel County Department of Inspections and Permits
Address: 2664 Riva Road, Heritage Office Complex, Annapolis, MD 21401
Permit Status: 410-222-7730
General Questions: 410-222-7700
Email: IPMailbox@aacounty.org
Website: Fire Alarm/Mag Lock Permits

Schedule Inspections
Phone: 410-222-4432

Fire Marshal - Codes and Regulations
Website: Codes & Regulations

Maryland State Police Licensing
Security Systems Agency: mdsp.maryland.gov

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

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Related Permit Guides for Anne Arundel County

• Security Camera Permits in Anne Arundel County
• Fire Alarm Permits in Anne Arundel County