Access Control Permit Requirements in Augusta, Georgia

Quick Answer: Augusta-Richmond County does not typically require separate permits for standalone access control installations. However, systems with electromagnetic locks on egress doors must comply with Georgia Building Code requirements. Contractors need a valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license (LVG or LVU) and an Augusta-Richmond County business license with required bonding and insurance.

When Are Permits Required?

Access control systems in Augusta fall under different requirements based on system complexity and integration:

Permits Typically Required

• Systems with electromagnetic locks on means of egress doors
• Integration with fire alarm systems (Fire Marshal approval needed)
• Projects in Historic Districts (Historic Preservation Commission approval)
• Commercial construction involving access control
• Systems requiring electrical work beyond low voltage

Permits Generally Not Required

• Standalone card readers and keypads
• Battery-powered electronic locks
• Low-voltage wiring for basic access control
• Intercom systems without electric strikes
• Residential smart locks and keypad deadbolts

Georgia Contractor Licensing

Any contractor installing access control for compensation must hold a valid license from the Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors.

License Types for Access Control

License	Code	Access Control Scope
Low Voltage General	LVG	Access control, intercoms, card readers, network cabling
Low Voltage Alarm	LVA	Access control integrated with alarm systems
Low Voltage Unrestricted	LVU	All low voltage work without limitations

License Requirements

• Minimum one year of installation experience
• Complete at least three low-voltage jobs in the year prior to application
• Pass state licensing examination
• Three notarized references (at least one from licensed contractor)
• Submit through GOALS online portal

Augusta-Richmond County Requirements

Beyond state licensing, contractors must comply with local construction trade regulations.

Business License

Obtain an Augusta-Richmond County business license before performing work in the jurisdiction.

Bonding Requirements

Contractor Type	Bond Amount
Commercial Contractor	$20,000
Residential Contractor	$15,000
Specialty Contractor	$5,000

Insurance Requirements

• Public liability insurance: minimum $50,000 per person
• Property damage insurance: minimum $100,000 per occurrence
• Certificate filed with License and Inspection Department

Electromagnetic Lock Code Requirements

Augusta follows the Georgia Building Code based on the 2018 IBC with state amendments. Electromagnetic locks on egress doors must meet specific safety requirements:

Permitted Occupancy Types

Electromagnetic locks on egress doors are permitted in:

• Group A - Assembly
• Group B - Business
• Group E - Educational
• Group M - Mercantile
• Group R-1 - Hotels/Motels
• Group R-2 - Apartments

Required Safety Features

• Release hardware: Listed hardware with built-in switch to directly release the lock
• Operation: Readily operated with one hand under all lighting conditions
• Power failure: Loss of power must automatically unlock the door
• Fire alarm integration: Automatic unlock upon fire alarm activation
• Panic hardware: Where required, panic hardware operation must release electromagnetic lock

Timer Release Option

IBC allows a 15-second timer release when force is applied for 1 second, providing an alternative means of egress.

Permit Application Process

Step 1: Determine Requirements

Contact Augusta Building Permits to confirm requirements for your specific project. Commercial projects may require review by the Planning and Development Department.

Step 2: Register with CityView Portal

If permits are required, register with Augusta through the CityView Portal to submit applications online.

Step 3: Prepare Documentation

For commercial projects requiring permits, prepare:

• Current Georgia low voltage license
• Three sets of drawings
• Approved site plan (for new construction)
• Door schedule identifying hardware on egress doors
• Fire alarm integration details (if applicable)

Step 4: Historic District Review

Projects in a Historic District require approval from the Historic Preservation Commission before permit issuance.

Step 5: Inspection

Schedule inspections after installation. Inspectors verify egress door compliance and fire alarm integration functionality.

Fees and Timeline

Service	Typical Cost
Low voltage permit (if required)	$50 - $150
Commercial plan review	Varies by project
Inspection	Included in permit
Reinspection	$50 - $75

Note: Effective June 9, 2025, Augusta implemented new permit fee schedules. Contact the permit office for current rates.

Residential vs Commercial Installations

Residential Projects

• Most residential access control does not require permits
• Smart locks and keypad deadbolts typically exempt
• Licensed contractor recommended for hardwired systems
• Homeowners may perform their own work with proper permits

Commercial Projects

• Electromagnetic locks on egress doors require code compliance
• Fire alarm integration requires Fire Marshal coordination
• Three sets of drawings typically required
• ADA accessibility requirements apply
• Historic District projects need preservation review

Pro Tips for Augusta Access Control Projects

Code Compliance: Augusta follows Georgia state codes with the 2018 IBC as the base. Verify electromagnetic lock egress requirements before installation to avoid costly corrections.

Historic Districts: Augusta has significant historic areas. Plan extra time for Historic Preservation Commission review on projects in designated districts.

Fire Alarm Integration: Coordinate early with the Fire Prevention Bureau when access control integrates with fire alarm systems. This requires separate review and approval.

Documentation: Maintain records of egress door hardware, including annual testing documentation for electromagnetic locks.

CityView Portal: Register early with the online permit system to streamline the application process for commercial projects.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Georgia and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Guides

• Access Control Permit Requirements in Atlanta, Georgia
• Access Control Permit Requirements in Savannah, Georgia
• Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Augusta, Georgia
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Augusta, Georgia
• Browse All Permit Guides

Contact Information

Augusta-Richmond County Building Permits
535 Telfair Street, Suite 300
Augusta, GA 30901
Building Permits

Augusta Permit Requirements
augustaga.gov/permits

Augusta Code of Ordinances
Municode Library

Georgia State Board of Low Voltage Contractors
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 195
Macon, GA 31210
Phone: (404) 424-9966
sos.ga.gov