Access Control Permit Requirements in Baltimore County, Maryland

Installing electronic access control systems in Baltimore County requires understanding permit requirements and contractor licensing. This guide covers what contractors and building owners need to know about card reader, keypad, and electronic door lock permits in Baltimore County.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally yes for contractor work. All electrical installations, including low voltage wiring for access control systems, require permits in Baltimore County when performed by contractors. Only licensed electrical contractors registered with Baltimore County can pull permits. Residential DIY work has different rules.

What Types of Access Control Systems Are Covered?

This guide applies to electronic access control installations including:

• Card readers (proximity, smart card, magnetic stripe)
• Key fob and badge systems
• Keypad and PIN entry systems
• Biometric readers (fingerprint, facial recognition)
• Electric door strikes and magnetic locks
• Motorized gate operators
• Intercom and video intercom systems
• Visitor management systems
• Turnstiles and mantraps

Do You Need an Electrical Permit?

According to Baltimore County Permits and Inspections:

• All types of electrical installations, including low voltage wiring, require permits when installed by contractors
• Proper permits must be obtained prior to commencing any work
• Working without a permit is a violation subject to a $1,000 civil penalty

When Permits Are Required

• Installing new electrical circuits for door hardware power
• Running low voltage wiring through walls, ceilings, or conduit
• Installing power supplies connected to building electrical systems
• Commercial access control installations
• Any work performed by contractors

When Permits May Not Be Required

• Standalone battery-powered smart locks
• Wireless systems not requiring wiring installation
• Simple plug-in devices using existing outlets
• Homeowner DIY installation (contact county to verify)

What Contractor Licenses Are Required?

Baltimore County Restricted Low Voltage License

The Restricted Low Voltage License authorizes installation, maintenance, and repair of equipment and wiring operating at 50 volts or less.

• Application fee: $130
• Must pass examination given by the Electrical Administrative Board
• Applications must be submitted by the electrician directly (no proxies)
• Apply online through Baltimore County's licensing portal
• Licenses expire June 30 of even-numbered years

Maryland Security Systems Agency License

If your access control work involves integrated security systems, you may need a Security Systems Agency License from the Maryland State Police:

• Application fee: $150 (includes background check)
• Livescan fingerprints required
• $50,000 minimum liability insurance or fidelity bond
• Two character recommendations required

For complete licensing information, see our Maryland Low Voltage License Guide.

How Do You Apply for a Permit?

All permit applications in Baltimore County must be completed online:

1. Create an account at the Baltimore County online permit portal
2. Select "Electrical Permit" application type
3. Enter your contractor license information
4. Describe the scope of work
5. Submit required documentation
6. Pay permit fees (Mastercard, Visa, or PayPal only)
7. Schedule inspection upon completion

Public workstations are available in the lobby for customers who need assistance creating accounts.

What Code Standards Apply?

Access control installations must comply with:

• NEC 2023: Baltimore County enforces the 2023 Edition of the National Electric Code for permits issued after August 31, 2023
• Baltimore County Building Code: Most recent edition enacted September 3, 2024 (Bill 49-24)
• NFPA 101 Life Safety Code: For egress and emergency exit requirements
• ADA requirements: For accessible entry systems

What Are the Fees and Timeline?

Item	Cost	Notes
Electrical Permit	Varies by scope	Based on project value
Restricted Low Voltage License	$130	Baltimore County specific
Security Systems Agency License	$150	State license if needed
Permit Validity	1 year	Can request 1-year extension
Working Without Permit	$1,000	Civil penalty

How Does This Differ for Residential vs. Commercial?

Residential Access Control

• Homeowner may be able to perform some DIY installation
• Battery-powered smart locks typically don't require permits
• Hardwired systems require licensed contractor and permit
• Gate operators may require additional considerations

Commercial Access Control

• Licensed contractor required for all work
• Electrical permit required
• Must comply with egress requirements (doors must fail-safe for emergency exit)
• ADA accessibility requirements apply
• Fire alarm integration may require additional coordination
• Building management coordination often required

What About Alarm Registration?

If your access control system includes alarm monitoring or intrusion detection features:

• All burglary and robbery alarm systems must be registered in Baltimore County
• No fee to register
• Contact the Alarm Reduction Team at alarmteam@baltimorecountymd.gov
• False alarm penalties apply for unregistered systems

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Get licensed first: You cannot pull permits without proper Baltimore County registration
• Apply online only: Paper applications are no longer accepted
• Understand egress codes: Access control on exit doors must fail-safe (unlock during power loss or fire alarm)
• Coordinate with fire alarm: Many jurisdictions require access control to release on fire alarm activation
• Document door hardware: Electric strikes and mag locks have specific power requirements
• Consider PoE: Power over Ethernet can simplify installations and reduce permit complexity
• Keep licenses current: Restricted licenses expire June 30 of even-numbered years

Key Contacts

Baltimore County Permits and Inspections
Phone: 410-887-3351
Permit Questions: 410-887-3953
Online Portal: cityworkspro.baltimorecountymd.gov

Electrical Licensing
Email: jcrizer@baltimorecountymd.gov
Website: Electrical Registration and Licensing

Alarm Registration
Email: alarmteam@baltimorecountymd.gov
Website: False Alarm Reduction

Maryland State Police Licensing
Security Systems Agency: mdsp.maryland.gov

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Maryland and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.

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Related Permit Guides for Baltimore County

• Security Camera Permits in Baltimore County
• Fire Alarm Permits in Baltimore County