Access Control Permit Requirements in Baltimore, Maryland

Installing access control systems in Baltimore requires understanding both city permit requirements and Maryland State Police licensing. Whether you're installing card readers, biometric systems, or electronic door locks, this guide covers what contractors and property owners need to know about permits and licensing in Baltimore, Maryland.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit for Access Control in Baltimore?

Yes, permits are typically required. Access control installations in Baltimore require electrical permits when connecting to building power systems. Additionally, Maryland State Police licensing is required for contractors providing security systems services, and Baltimore City requires alarm system registration for monitored access control systems that can summon police response.

When Access Control Permits Are Required

Access control installations in Baltimore require permits in these situations:

• Electrical connections - Any low voltage wiring that connects to building electrical systems requires an electrical permit from Baltimore City
• Door hardware modifications - Replacing or installing electric strikes, magnetic locks, or motorized doors may require building permits
• Structural changes - Cutting into walls, doors, or frames for card readers or controllers requires permits
• Fire-rated door modifications - Any changes to fire-rated doors require fire marshal review and permits
• ADA compliance - Automatic door operators must meet accessibility requirements

Permit Exemptions

Some access control work may be exempt from permits:

• Standalone battery-powered locks (not connected to building systems)
• Simple key card readers that don't require electrical work
• Replacement of existing equipment with identical units (same location, same specifications)
• Minor repairs and maintenance to existing systems

However, even for exempt work, Maryland State Police licensing is still required for contractors performing security systems services.

Maryland State Police Security Systems License

Access control contractors in Maryland must hold a Security Systems Agency License issued by the Maryland State Police Licensing Division. This requirement applies to any individual or firm that provides security systems services, including:

• Surveying property for security system installation
• Installing, maintaining, or repairing security systems
• Responding to alarms from security systems

License Requirements

Requirement	Details
Minimum Age	18 years old
Background Check	Livescan fingerprints within 30 days of application
Character	Good moral character and reputation
Application Fee	$100 (with Livescan) or $130 (with ink cards)
Processing Time	Approximately 90 days
License Duration	3 years
Renewal Fee	$100-$130

Applications are submitted through the Maryland State Police Licensing Portal.

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

Baltimore City Alarm Registration

Under Baltimore City Code, Police Ordinances Article 19, Subtitle 8, access control systems that can summon police response must be registered with the Police Commissioner.

Registration Requirements

• User registration - Free, valid until cancelled, required to request police dispatch
• Contractor registration - $50 per year for each alarm system installed
• Monitor registration - $50 per year, must provide monthly customer lists

False Alarm Penalties

False Alarm Count	Residential Fee	Commercial Fee
2nd - 3rd	$50	$50
4th	$100	$100
5th	$150	$150
12th and above	$500	$1,000-$2,000

Monitor violations carry a $500 citation for monitoring unregistered users, failing to report unregistered users, or using automatic dialers to 911.

Baltimore City Permit Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

• Detailed system drawings showing all device locations
• Electrical load calculations
• Equipment specifications and cut sheets
• Maryland State Police license documentation
• Maryland Home Improvement (MHIC) license if working on residential properties

Step 2: Submit Through E-Permits

Baltimore City uses the E-Permits system for permit applications:

• Create an account at the Baltimore City permits portal
• License holders must present valid contractor license and photo ID to receive E-Permits access code
• Submit application with all required documentation
• Pay applicable permit fees

Step 3: Schedule Inspections

After permit approval and installation completion:

• Request rough-in inspection before closing walls
• Schedule final electrical inspection
• Obtain inspection sign-off and certificate of completion

Contact Information

Baltimore City Department of Housing & Community Development
Address: 417 E Fayette St, Suite 361, Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 443-984-1809
Email: alarmregistration@baltimorecity.gov

Fees and Timeline

Fee Type	Amount
Electrical Permit (residential)	$50-$150
Electrical Permit (commercial)	$100-$500+
MD State Police License (initial)	$100-$130
Contractor Alarm Registration	$50/year
User Alarm Registration	Free

Timeline:

• Permit review: 3-10 business days
• State Police license: ~90 days
• Inspection scheduling: 2-5 business days

Residential vs Commercial Access Control

Residential Projects

• Contractors must have Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license in addition to State Police license
• Electrical permits required for hardwired systems
• Simpler permitting process for standalone residential systems
• Common installations: smart locks, video doorbells with access control, garage door openers

Commercial Projects

• More extensive permit requirements including fire marshal review for fire-rated doors
• ADA compliance required for all public-facing access points
• May require coordination with building management for network and power access
• Common installations: card access systems, biometric readers, visitor management, turnstiles

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Coordinate with fire marshal early - Any work on fire-rated doors requires advance approval and can delay projects significantly
• Pre-wire during construction - If building is under construction, install conduit and cabling before walls close to avoid retrofit costs
• Register alarms proactively - Complete Baltimore City alarm registration before system activation to avoid monitoring violations
• Document everything - Keep records of all permits, inspections, and alarm registrations for each installation
• Two-call verification - Ensure monitoring company follows Baltimore's two-call verification requirement before dispatching police
• Plan for ADA - Commercial access control must meet accessibility standards including timing, force, and height requirements

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides

• Maryland Low Voltage Contractor License Guide
• Baltimore, MD Security Camera Permit Requirements
• Baltimore, MD Fire Alarm Permit Requirements

Last updated: January 2025. Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with Baltimore City and the Maryland State Police before beginning work.