Access Control Permit Requirements in Atlanta, Georgia

Quick Answer: Access control system installations in Atlanta may require electrical or low voltage permits, and building permits if doors are being altered. Contractors must hold a Georgia Low Voltage Contractor License. All electronic locking systems must comply with the Georgia State Minimum Standard Building Code (IBC 2018) egress requirements to ensure safe evacuation during emergencies.

Understanding Atlanta's Access Control Requirements

Atlanta follows the Georgia State Minimum Standard Building Code based on IBC 2018 for access control installations. The key requirements involve contractor licensing and strict compliance with life safety and fire codes governing how electronic locks must function during emergencies.

When Permits Are Required

Permits may be required in Atlanta for access control projects when:

• Door modifications - Installing electric strikes, magnetic locks, or automatic door operators
• Electrical work - Running new circuits or power for access control panels
• Fire alarm integration - Connecting access control to fire alarm release systems
• Structural changes - Modifying door frames, walls, or creating new openings
• Secure access locks - Systems with secure access locks require permits and inspection

When Permits May Not Be Required

Permit exemptions may apply for:

• Standalone card readers using existing power and network
• Keypad additions to existing door hardware
• Software and credential programming changes
• Like-for-like replacement of existing components
• Professional installations that don't modify doors or electrical systems

Requirements vary by jurisdiction—Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Decatur, and other metro areas may have different standards. Always verify with your local building department.

Georgia Low Voltage Contractor License

The Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors requires licensing for access control installation.

License Classifications

License Type	Code	Scope
Unrestricted	LV-U	All low voltage work including access control
Alarm	LV-A	Burglar alarms, fire alarms, access control, CCTV

License Requirements

Requirement	Details
Experience	Minimum 1 year in low voltage wiring
References	3 letters of reference required
Examination	Open book, 90 questions, 4-hour limit, 70% to pass
Application	Submit via GOALS portal
Renewal	Every 2 years

For complete licensing details, see our Georgia Low Voltage License Guide.

Building Code Egress Requirements

All access control installations in Atlanta must comply with Georgia Building Code egress requirements. Improperly installed electronic locks create serious life safety hazards.

General Egress Principles

Except as specifically permitted by code, egress doors must be readily openable from the egress side without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.

Access-Controlled Egress Doors (Sensor Release)

Electromagnetic locks with sensor release require:

• UL 294 listing - Access control system must be listed
• Motion sensor - Installed on egress side to detect approaching occupants
• Power loss release - Loss of power to sensor unlocks door
• Fire alarm integration - Door unlocks upon fire alarm or sprinkler activation
• Manual release - Push button 40-48 inches above floor, within 5 feet of door
• 30-second unlock - Button must keep door unlocked for at least 30 seconds
• Direct power interruption - Button directly interrupts power, independent of electronics
• "Push to Exit" signage - Button must be clearly marked

Electromagnetically Locked Egress Doors (Hardware Release)

Allowed in Use Groups A (Assembly), B (Business), E (Educational), M (Mercantile), R-1, and R-2:

• Listed hardware mounted on door leaf with built-in switch
• Must release electromagnetic lock immediately
• Obvious method of operation
• Operable with one hand under all lighting conditions
• Fire alarm release may not be required when door-mounted release is used

Assembly and Public Buildings

Per Georgia Code, entrance doors in Group A, B, E, or M occupancies cannot be secured from the egress side during periods the building is open to the general public.

City of Atlanta Contacts

Department	Contact
Office of Buildings	(404) 330-6190
Fire Marshal's Office	(404) 546-7000
GA Low Voltage Board	(404) 424-9966

Fees and Timeline

Item	Typical Cost	Timeline
Low voltage/electrical permit	$50-$200	1-5 business days
Building permit (if doors modified)	$100-$300	5-10 business days
GA LV license exam	$150	Schedule through PSI
GA LV license application	$150	2-4 weeks processing

Residential vs. Commercial Projects

Residential Installations

• Smart locks and keypads often don't require permits
• Low voltage wiring may be exempt
• Electrical permits needed for new circuits
• Consider using licensed installer for complex systems

Commercial Installations

• Must use Georgia-licensed low voltage contractor (LV-A or LV-U)
• Permits typically required for door hardware modifications
• Fire alarm integration requires coordination with fire marshal
• Must comply with ADA accessibility requirements
• Public buildings have additional restrictions during open hours

Application Process

Step 1: System Design

• Engage a Georgia-licensed low voltage contractor
• Design system compliant with egress requirements
• Specify fire alarm integration points
• Document door hardware modifications

Step 2: Permit Application

• Submit application to Atlanta Office of Buildings
• Include door schedules and hardware specifications
• Provide contractor license documentation
• Pay applicable fees

Step 3: Installation

• Install per approved plans and manufacturer specifications
• Verify egress compliance at each door
• Test fire alarm integration
• Document all programming and credentials

Step 4: Inspection

• Schedule inspection with building department
• Demonstrate egress functionality
• Show fire alarm release operation
• Provide as-built documentation

Pro Tips from Atlanta Contractors

• Prioritize egress compliance - Life safety requirements are non-negotiable; design around them first
• Use UL 294 listed equipment - Code requires listed access control systems
• Coordinate with fire alarm contractor - Integration must be seamless for code compliance
• Test fail-safe operation - Verify every door releases properly on power loss and fire alarm
• Consider humidity - Atlanta's climate requires appropriate equipment ratings
• Professional installers handle permits - Licensed contractors often manage the entire permitting process
• Check local variations - Metro Atlanta jurisdictions may have different requirements

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Permit Guides

• Georgia Low Voltage License Requirements
• More Georgia Permit Guides

Last updated: January 2025. Building codes and requirements change. Always verify current egress requirements with the Atlanta Office of Buildings and fire marshal before starting work.