Security Camera Permit Requirements in Baltimore County, Maryland

Installing security cameras in Baltimore County requires understanding both state licensing requirements and local regulations. This guide covers what contractors and property owners need to know about CCTV and surveillance system permits in Baltimore County.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no permit is required for the cameras themselves. Security camera installations typically don't require building permits in Baltimore County. However, contractors must hold proper state and county licenses, and if the system includes alarm monitoring, the alarm must be registered with the county. Electrical permits may be required if the installation involves new electrical circuits.

What Types of Security Cameras Are Covered?

This guide applies to various surveillance system installations:

• CCTV and IP camera systems
• Network video recorders (NVR) and DVR systems
• PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras
• Outdoor and weatherproof cameras
• Access control integrated camera systems
• Video analytics and AI-powered surveillance
• Cloud-connected security cameras

What Contractor Licenses Are Required?

Security camera installation in Baltimore County requires multiple credentials:

Maryland Security Systems Agency License

The Maryland State Police Licensing Division requires a Security Systems Agency License for any individual or firm providing security systems services in Maryland, including CCTV installation.

Requirements include:

• Application fee of $150 (includes background check costs)
• Livescan fingerprints submitted to Maryland CJIS and FBI
• Fidelity bond or commercial general liability insurance of at least $50,000
• Color passport-style photograph
• Two signed recommendations from reputable citizens
• Maintain records in a Maryland office

Baltimore County Restricted Low Voltage License

Baltimore County requires a Restricted Low Voltage License for installing 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
• License authorizes installation, maintenance, and repair of low-voltage equipment

Baltimore County Alarm Company Permit

If your security camera system includes alarm monitoring features, you need an Alarm Company Permit from Baltimore County:

• Email alarmteam@baltimorecountymd.gov for application package
• Serious penalties ($1,000 civil citation per violation) for operating without permit
• Required before selling, installing, monitoring, or servicing alarm systems

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

Do You Need an Electrical Permit?

Electrical permits may be required depending on your installation scope:

Permit Required When

• Installing new electrical circuits for camera power
• Running electrical wiring through walls or ceilings
• Adding dedicated outlets for DVR/NVR equipment
• Commercial installations with significant electrical work

Permit Typically Not Required When

• Cameras plug into existing outlets
• Using Power over Ethernet (PoE) from existing network infrastructure
• Wireless cameras with battery or solar power
• Simple residential installations without electrical modifications

Only a licensed electrical contractor registered with Baltimore County can apply for electrical permits. Baltimore County enforces the 2023 Edition of the National Electric Code (NEC) for permits issued after August 31, 2023.

How Do You Apply for Electrical Permits?

If your installation requires an electrical permit:

1. Ensure you hold proper Baltimore County electrical registration
2. Apply online through Baltimore County's online permit portal
3. Pay permit fees at time of application (non-refundable)
4. Schedule inspection upon completion

Check permit status by calling 410-887-3900 (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM).

Is Alarm Registration Required?

If your security camera system includes alarm monitoring or intrusion detection features:

• All burglary and robbery alarm systems must be registered in Baltimore County
• No fee to register an alarm system
• Significant civil penalties for failing to register
• Contact the False Alarm Reduction Team for registration

What Are Maryland Video Surveillance Laws?

Understanding legal requirements is essential for proper installation:

Video Recording

• Legal for property owners to install surveillance cameras on their property
• No consent required to record video of anyone on your property
• No disclosure requirement for video-only surveillance
• Cameras must be located wholly on your property

Audio Recording Restrictions

• Maryland requires consent for audio recording of private conversations
• Recording private conversations without consent can lead to legal consequences
• If your system captures audio, inform visitors with signage
• Consider disabling audio recording for outdoor cameras

Residential vs. Commercial Installations

Residential Projects

• Homeowners may install their own cameras without contractor license
• Permits typically not needed for basic installations
• Alarm registration required if system has monitoring
• Property boundary restrictions apply

Commercial Projects

• Licensed contractor required for all work
• May require electrical permits for larger systems
• Building code compliance for cable pathways
• Coordination with building management
• May need to comply with industry-specific regulations (HIPAA, PCI-DSS)

What Are the Fees?

Item	Cost	Notes
Security Systems Agency License	$150	State license, includes background check
Restricted Low Voltage License	$130	Baltimore County specific
Alarm Registration	Free	Required if system has monitoring
Electrical Permit	Varies	Based on scope of work
Alarm Company Permit Violation	$1,000	Per violation civil citation

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Get licensed before marketing: Baltimore County enforces alarm company permit requirements strictly
• Use PoE when possible: Power over Ethernet reduces electrical permit requirements
• Document camera placement: Certify cameras are wholly on client property
• Disable audio by default: Maryland's consent laws make audio recording risky
• Register alarms proactively: Help clients avoid false alarm fines
• Keep licenses current: Baltimore County restricted licenses expire June 30 of even-numbered years

Key Contacts

Baltimore County Permits and Inspections
Phone: 410-887-3351
Permit Status: 410-887-3900
Website: baltimorecountymd.gov

Baltimore County Alarm Reduction Team
Email: alarmteam@baltimorecountymd.gov
Website: False Alarm Reduction

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

Electrical Administrative Board
Website: Electrical Administrative Board

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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