Access Control Permit Requirements in Arlington, Texas

Installing access control systems in Arlington, Texas requires understanding both state licensing through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and local permit processes through the City of Arlington Fire Prevention Division. This comprehensive guide covers everything low-voltage contractors need to know about electronic access control installations in this major DFW metroplex city.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit for Access Control?

State license required; building permit depends on scope. All contractors installing electronic access control devices in Texas must hold a Class B Security Contractor License or Class D Electronic Access Control Device Company license through DPS. Building permits are required when access control work involves fire-rated doors, delayed egress systems, or integration with fire alarm systems. Standard card reader installations on non-fire-rated doors typically do not require a building permit.

When Are Permits Required vs. Exempt?

State Licensing Always Required

Any commercial access control installation performed for compensation
Card access and badge reader systems
Electronic door locks and strikes
Keypad entry systems
Biometric access devices
Video intercom systems with door release
Gate access control systems

Building Permits Required For

Access control on fire-rated doors or fire barriers
Delayed egress lock installations
Electromagnetic locks on egress doors
Integration with fire alarm or sprinkler systems
New construction commercial access control
Modifications to means of egress

Typically Permit-Exempt

Standalone card readers on non-fire-rated doors
Retrofitting existing hardware with electronic access
Low-voltage wiring for access control panels
Software and credential management only

Texas DPS Licensing Requirements

The Texas Department of Public Safety Private Security Bureau regulates all electronic access control device installers in the state. Contractors must obtain proper licensing before performing any access control work.

Company License Requirements

Class B Security Contractor License: Required for companies installing alarm, electronic access, guard, or locksmith services
Class D Electronic Access Control Device Company: Specific license for companies focused solely on access control
Must designate a qualified manager who has passed the PSB exam
Proof of liability insurance required
Background check on all principals

Individual License Requirements

Electronic Access Control Device Installer: Required for all technicians
Must be registered under a licensed company
Background check and fingerprinting required
No felony convictions within specified timeframes

Arlington Fire Prevention Division Requirements

When access control work involves fire-rated assemblies or means of egress, the Arlington Fire Prevention Division has specific requirements that must be followed.

Egress Door Requirements

Per the International Fire Code as adopted by Arlington: Egress doors shall be readily openable from the egress side without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort. Key requirements include:

Push buttons alone are NOT allowed for egress purposes
All exit devices must be listed for the purpose
Hardware must be operable with one hand
Door hardware must directly interrupt power to unlock the door

Delayed Egress Lock Requirements

Delayed egress locks may be installed on doors serving most occupancies except Group A (Assembly), E (Educational), and H (Hazardous) when:

Building is equipped throughout with automatic fire sprinkler system
Approved automatic smoke or heat detection system installed
Meets all requirements of IFC Section 1008.1.8.6 as amended by Arlington

Knox Box Requirements

Fire Department access via Knox Box is required for buildings with electronic access control. The City recommends:

Knox boxes supervised by electronic security system
Tamper detection features on all acceptable Knox Box models
One set of properly labeled keys inside
Keys on substantially constructed key ring

Application Process

For Building Permits

Submit permit application online at ArlingtonPermits.com
Include detailed plans showing access control locations
Show integration with fire alarm if applicable
Indicate door types and fire ratings
Pay applicable fees
Schedule inspections after approval

For State Licensing

Apply through Texas DPS Private Security Bureau online portal
Complete background check and fingerprinting
Pass qualified manager exam (for company license)
Submit proof of insurance
Pay licensing fees

Fees and Timeline

Permit/License Type	Typical Fee	Processing Time
Class B Company License (DPS)	$500-$1,000	4-6 weeks
Individual Installer License (DPS)	$50-$100	2-4 weeks
Arlington Building Permit	Varies by scope	5-10 business days
Plan Review (Fire Prevention)	Included in permit	5-15 business days

Fees current as of 2026. Contact Arlington Planning and Development Services at 817-459-6502 to verify current fees.

Contractor Requirements Summary

To perform access control work in Arlington, Texas, contractors need:

Texas DPS Class B or Class D Company License
Individual technician licenses for all installers
General liability insurance (minimum $1 million recommended)
Workers compensation coverage
City of Arlington business registration if maintaining local office

Pro Tips

Submit plans early: Fire Prevention plan review can take up to 15 business days for complex projects
Coordinate with fire alarm contractor: Access control integration with fire systems requires both trades to coordinate
Document door schedules: Include fire ratings, hardware types, and access control devices for each door
Knox Box placement: Confirm location with Arlington Fire Prevention before installation
Keep licenses current: DPS conducts random audits; expired licenses result in work stoppages

Stay Ahead of Access Control Projects

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Related Guides

Last updated: January 2026. Information verified against official sources. Permit requirements change—always confirm with your local building department and Texas DPS before starting work.