Security Camera Permit Requirements in Arlington, Texas

Quick Answer: In Arlington, Texas, standalone security camera installations on private property do not require a city permit. However, if your security cameras are connected to a monitored alarm system that summons police, you must obtain an alarm permit from the Arlington Police Department ($50/year). All contractors installing security cameras for compensation must hold a Texas Class B Security Services Contractor license from the Texas DPS Private Security Bureau.

When Is a Permit Required?

Arlington's permit requirements focus on alarm systems rather than standalone cameras:

Permit Required

• Monitored alarm systems: Any location with a working burglar alarm system intended to summon police requires an alarm permit
• Integrated surveillance: Security cameras connected to central monitoring that can dispatch police response
• Commercial properties: All businesses with monitored security systems need a valid permit
• Residential with monitoring: Homes with professional monitoring services that contact police

Generally Exempt

• Standalone cameras: Security cameras that only record locally without police notification
• Self-monitored systems: DIY camera systems where you receive alerts but no automatic police dispatch
• Network video recorders: IP camera systems without central station monitoring

Texas Contractor Licensing Requirements

Regardless of whether a permit is required, Texas state law mandates that any person or company performing security camera installations for compensation must be licensed by the Texas DPS Private Security Bureau.

Required License: Class B Security Services Contractor

The Texas DPS has clarified that companies selling and installing cameras that transmit or store images over a computer network fall within Chapter 1702's definition of "alarm system." This means:

• Video surveillance installers need a Class B Security Services Contractor license
• This includes network video systems, IP cameras, and video surveillance trailer systems
• Both the company and individual technicians must be properly licensed

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

• Criminal prosecution by the Texas Department of Public Safety
• Fines up to $4,000 per violation
• Civil liability for property owners who knowingly hire unlicensed contractors

For complete details on obtaining your Texas security contractor license, see our comprehensive guide: Low Voltage License Texas

Arlington Alarm Permit Application Process

If your security camera installation includes monitored alarm functionality, follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose Your Application Method

Online (Recommended):

Apply and pay at www.arlingtonpermits.com

By Mail:

Download the Burglar Alarm Permit Application, complete it, and mail with $50 payment to:

Arlington Police Department Alarm Office
PO Box 1065
Arlington, TX 76004-1065

In Person:

Arlington Police Department
620 W. Division Street
Arlington, TX 76011
(Corner of Cooper and Division Streets)

Applications available 24/7. Processing during business hours: Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. After-hours drop box available.

Step 2: Provide Required Information

• Property address for alarm installation
• Property owner/tenant information
• Emergency contact details
• Alarm company information
• Type of alarm system

Step 3: Complete Payment

Submit $50 annual permit fee via check, money order, or online payment.

Step 4: Provide Permit Number to Alarm Company

Important: After receiving your permit, contact your alarm company and provide them with the permit number. Your alarm company must provide police 911 operators with your permit number for response.

Fees and Timeline

Item	Cost/Duration
Annual Alarm Permit	$50
Seniors (65+) / Disabled Veterans	Free (primary residence)
False Alarms (1st-3rd per year)	No charge
False Alarms (4th-5th)	$50 each
False Alarms (6th-7th)	$75 each
Processing Time (Mail)	1 business day
Processing Time (In Person)	Same day during business hours

Note: Operating an alarm without a valid permit violates Arlington City Ordinance. Police typically respond only to addresses with valid alarm permits.

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

For homeowners in Arlington installing security cameras:

• Self-installation: Texas law allows homeowners to install cameras on their own property without a license
• Hiring a contractor: Any contractor must hold a valid Texas Class B license
• Privacy considerations: Cameras must not record areas where neighbors have a reasonable expectation of privacy
• Permit exemption: Seniors 65+ and 100% disabled veterans are exempt from the $50 permit fee at their primary residence

Commercial Installations

Business owners in Arlington should note:

• Mandatory permits: All businesses with monitored alarm systems require valid permits
• Multiple locations: Each location requires a separate alarm permit
• Employee notification: Consider posting visible signage about surveillance
• Restricted areas: Never install cameras in bathrooms, changing rooms, or locker rooms

False Alarm Prevention

Arlington's false alarm fee structure encourages system reliability:

• First 3 false alarms: Included with permit at no additional charge
• 4th and 5th false alarms: $50 administrative fee each
• 6th and 7th false alarms: $75 administrative fee each
• 8+ false alarms: Escalating fees and potential permit review

Prevention Tips:

• Ensure all users know proper arm/disarm procedures
• Keep motion sensors clean and properly positioned
• Update codes when employees leave (commercial)
• Schedule regular system maintenance

Contact Information

Arlington Police Department - Alarm Permits
620 W. Division Street
Arlington, TX 76011
Phone: (817) 459-5700
Online: City of Arlington Alarm Permits

Pro Tips for Arlington Security Camera Projects

Based on contractor experience in the Arlington market:

• DFW market standards: Arlington clients often expect integration with major platforms like Ring, ADT, or Vivint. Be prepared to discuss compatibility options.
• Commercial density: Arlington's entertainment district and AT&T Stadium area have specific security considerations. Large-scale commercial projects may require coordination with Arlington PD.
• Weather factors: North Texas severe weather (hail, high winds, extreme heat) requires durable outdoor enclosures rated for the climate.
• Permit coordination: Ensure clients provide their alarm permit number to the monitoring company before going live.
• Same-day processing: For urgent commercial installations, in-person permit applications at the police department can be processed same-day during business hours.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Permit Guides

• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Dallas, Texas
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, Texas
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Tarrant County, Texas
• Low Voltage License Texas

Last updated: January 2026. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Requirements may change—always verify current regulations with the City of Arlington and the Texas DPS Private Security Bureau before beginning work.