Burglar Alarm Permit Requirements in Arkansas

Does Arkansas require permits and licensing for burglar alarm installation? Here's what contractors need to know about Arkansas State Police alarm company licensing, permits, and compliance requirements in the Natural State.

State Licensing Requirements

Arkansas regulates the alarm industry through the Arkansas State Police, Regulatory Services Division. The licensing program is established under the Private Security Agency and Alarm Systems Company Acts.

Who Must Be Licensed

Arkansas State Police licensing is required for:

• Companies that install burglar alarm systems
• Companies that service or repair alarm systems
• Companies that monitor alarm systems
• Companies that sell and install alarm systems
• Out-of-state companies working in Arkansas

License Types

License Type	Description	Fee
Alarm Systems Company	Business license for alarm installation, service, and monitoring	$250/year
Branch Office	Additional location registration	$50/year
Qualifying Agent	Individual responsible for company compliance	Included with company

Company License Requirements

To obtain an Arkansas Alarm Systems Company License:

1. Application: Submit application to Arkansas State Police
2. Qualifying Agent: Designate a responsible individual
3. Insurance: General liability insurance required ($50,000 minimum)
4. Bond: $10,000 surety bond required
5. Background check: Required for qualifying agent and company officers
6. Fee: $250 annual license fee

Employee Requirements

Employees of licensed alarm companies:

• Must be registered with Arkansas State Police
• Background check required
• Must carry company identification while working
• Registration fee: $25 per employee

Exemptions

The following are exempt from ASP alarm company licensing:

• Homeowners installing systems in their own residence
• Businesses installing systems only in their own facilities
• Licensed electrical contractors performing incidental alarm wiring
• Telephone companies installing equipment for their customers
• Selling alarm equipment without installation services

Alarm User Permits (Local)

While the state handles contractor licensing, some Arkansas cities have alarm user permit requirements:

Little Rock

• Permit required: Yes, alarm registration with Police Department
• Fee: $25 residential, $50 commercial
• False alarms: Fines after 3rd false alarm ($50-$250 escalating)
• Registration: Little Rock Police Department

Fort Smith

• Permit required: Yes, alarm registration
• Fee: $15-$25
• False alarms: Escalating fines after grace period
• Registration: Fort Smith Police Department

Fayetteville

• Permit required: Alarm registration encouraged
• False alarms: Fines may apply
• Registration: Fayetteville Police Department

Springdale

• Permit required: Yes
• Fee: Varies
• False alarms: Ordinance with fines
• Registration: Springdale Police Department

False Alarm Reduction

False alarms are a concern throughout Arkansas. Help customers avoid fines:

Common False Alarm Causes

1. User error (wrong codes, forgetting to disarm)
2. Motion sensors triggered by pets
3. Loose windows/doors causing faults
4. Environmental factors (bugs, cobwebs, dust)
5. Low batteries in wireless devices
6. Weather-related issues (storms, power fluctuations)

Installation Best Practices

• Install pet-immune motion sensors when pets are present
• Position sensors away from HVAC vents and heat sources
• Ensure doors and windows are properly aligned
• Test all sensors before leaving
• Provide comprehensive user training
• Document training with signed acknowledgment

Major Cities in Arkansas

Little Rock

The capital and largest city has the most active alarm market. Little Rock Police Department manages alarm permits. Commercial alarm demand is strong in the downtown and suburban business districts. State government buildings have specific security requirements.

Fort Smith

Arkansas's second-largest city on the Oklahoma border. The Fort Smith Police Department handles alarm registration. The city has active commercial and residential alarm markets.

Northwest Arkansas

The Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers-Bentonville metro area is rapidly growing. Major corporate headquarters (Walmart, Tyson, J.B. Hunt) drive commercial alarm demand. University of Arkansas creates institutional opportunities.

Jonesboro

Largest city in northeast Arkansas. Jonesboro Police Department manages alarm registrations. Arkansas State University presence creates institutional demand.

Commercial vs Residential

Residential Burglar Alarms

• ASP company license required for installers
• Local alarm user permit may be required
• Homeowner can install their own system
• Insurance may require UL-listed system for discounts
• Monitoring is optional but adds value

Commercial Burglar Alarms

• ASP company license required
• Commercial alarm permit typically required in larger cities
• Insurance underwriters may specify system requirements
• UL certification often required for banks, jewelry stores
• Integration with access control and fire alarm common
• Documentation and as-built drawings expected

ASP License Application Process

Steps to Obtain License

1. Complete application: Download from Arkansas State Police website
2. Designate Qualifying Agent: Individual who oversees company compliance
3. Background checks: Submit for qualifying agent and officers
4. Insurance certificate: Provide proof of $50,000+ liability coverage
5. Surety bond: Obtain $10,000 bond from licensed surety
6. Pay fee: $250 annual license fee
7. Wait for approval: Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks

Maintaining License

• Renew annually before expiration
• Report any changes in company officers
• Maintain insurance and bond coverage
• Register all new employees
• Report criminal convictions of any employees

Installation Requirements

Follow industry standards for Arkansas installations:

• NFPA 731: Installation of Electronic Premises Security Systems
• UL 681: Installation and Classification of Burglar and Holdup Alarm Systems
• NEC Article 725: Class 2 and Class 3 circuits

Related Permits You May Need

Burglar alarm work often overlaps with other systems:

• Fire Alarm Permits in Arkansas
• Access Control Permits in Arkansas
• Security Camera Permits in Arkansas
• Intercom Permits in Arkansas

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to install burglar alarms in Arkansas?

Yes. Arkansas requires an Alarm Systems Company License from the Arkansas State Police to install, service, or monitor burglar alarm systems. The license costs $250 per year and requires insurance, bonding, and background checks.

Can I install my own alarm system in Arkansas?

Yes. Homeowners can install alarm systems in their own residence without a license. However, you may still need a local alarm user permit depending on your city.

What insurance do I need for alarm work in Arkansas?

Arkansas State Police requires minimum $50,000 general liability insurance. Most professional companies carry higher limits ($500,000-$1,000,000) for commercial work.

How long does it take to get an Arkansas alarm license?

Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks after submitting a complete application. Background checks may add time if there are issues to resolve.

Does Arkansas have reciprocity with other states?

No. Arkansas does not have reciprocity for alarm company licenses. Out-of-state companies must obtain Arkansas ASP licensing before working in the state.

Find Alarm Projects in Arkansas

Looking for burglar alarm installation opportunities in Arkansas? LVN Signal tracks construction permits and bids across Arkansas, alerting you to projects the moment they're filed.

Explore Signal

Last updated: February 2026. Requirements may change. Always verify with Arkansas State Police and local building departments before beginning work.