Security Camera Permit Requirements in Baltimore, Maryland
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Complete guide to security camera permit requirements in Baltimore, MD including alarm registration, Maryland licensing, and audio recording laws.
Security Camera Permit Requirements in Baltimore, Maryland
Installing security cameras and CCTV systems in Baltimore, Maryland requires understanding state licensing, alarm registration requirements, and Maryland's strict audio recording laws. Baltimore has specific alarm registration requirements that contractors and property owners must follow.
Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?
Generally no specific permit for cameras. Most security camera installations in Baltimore don't require a dedicated permit. However, alarm system registration with the Baltimore City Police Commissioner is required, and contractors need proper state licensing. Audio recording has strict consent requirements.
Baltimore City Alarm Registration
Baltimore City Code, Police Ordinances Article 19, Subtitle 8, requires alarm system registration with the Police Commissioner:
Registration Requirements
- Users: Must register annually - No fee (effective November 26, 2012)
- Contractors: Must register and pay $50 per year for each alarm system
- Monitors: Must register and pay appropriate fees
Register at Baltimore City Alarm Registration
When Permits May Be Required
While cameras typically don't need permits, you may need permits for:
- Electrical work for hardwired camera systems
- Systems tied into public spaces
- Large commercial building installations
- Structural modifications for camera mounting
- Systems integrated with fire alarm or building management
Maryland State Licensing Requirements
Maryland has a multi-jurisdictional licensing system for low voltage and security work:
State Police Licensing
Maryland State Police licenses companies performing surveillance camera installation work. This is separate from electrical licensing.
County Low Voltage Licenses
Baltimore County and other Maryland counties offer restricted low voltage licenses for work at 50 volts or less. These authorize:
- Installation of low voltage equipment and wiring
- Maintenance and repair of low voltage systems
- Security camera and surveillance installation
Important: County licenses are valid only within the issuing county. Baltimore City may have different requirements than Baltimore County.
Electrical Licensing Options
- Master Electrician License - Authorizes all electrical work including low voltage statewide
- County Restricted License - Available in select counties for low voltage work (50V or less)
For complete licensing details, see our Maryland Low Voltage License Guide.
Maryland Video Surveillance Laws
Understanding Maryland's surveillance laws is critical for proper installation:
Video Recording - Generally Permitted
- Legal to have video surveillance on personal property and businesses
- Property owners can record anyone on their property without consent
- No requirement to disclose video surveillance to visitors
- External and internal cameras are permitted
Audio Recording - Strict Requirements
Maryland is a two-party consent state for audio recording:
- All parties must consent to audio recording
- Recording private conversations without consent is illegal
- Violators face criminal penalties
- Security cameras with audio require caution and proper notification
Privacy Restrictions
- Prohibited: Hidden cameras in bathrooms, dressing rooms, or private areas
- Prohibited: Recording inside private residences without consent
- Penalties: Up to 1 year imprisonment and/or $2,500 fine
Commercial Signage Requirements
Proper signage must be displayed for commercial surveillance:
- Inform people they are under video surveillance
- Required in public-facing commercial spaces
- Required in employee monitoring areas
Baltimore Permit Application Process
For installations requiring electrical permits:
Required Documents
- Completed electrical permit application
- System plans showing camera locations and wiring
- Valid Maryland electrical or low voltage license
- Maryland State Police company license (for surveillance work)
- Certificate of insurance
- Property owner authorization
Baltimore City Contact
Baltimore City Department of Housing & Community Development
417 E Fayette Street
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-3575
Permit Information
dhcd.baltimorecity.gov
Permit Fees and Timeline
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Alarm User Registration | Free |
| Contractor Alarm Registration | $50/year per system |
| Electrical Permit (if required) | $75 - $200 |
| Plan Review (commercial) | $50 - $150 |
Typical Timeline: Alarm registration is processed within days. Electrical permits typically take 3-7 business days.
Residential vs. Commercial Requirements
Residential Security Cameras
Residential installations in Baltimore typically include:
- Doorbell cameras and video intercoms
- Outdoor perimeter cameras
- Indoor monitoring systems
- Garage and driveway cameras
Homeowners installing their own cameras generally don't need permits but should register alarm systems and avoid audio recording.
Commercial Security Cameras
Commercial projects require:
- Proper contractor licensing
- Alarm system registration
- Signage notifying customers of surveillance
- Employee notification for workplace monitoring
- Compliance with audio recording laws
Inspection Requirements
If electrical permits are required, inspectors verify:
- Installation matches approved plans
- Electrical connections meet code requirements
- Proper grounding and bonding
- Camera positions documented
Pro Tips for Baltimore Security Camera Projects
- Register alarm systems - Required by Baltimore City code
- Disable audio recording - Maryland's two-party consent law is strict
- Post signage for commercial - Required notification for surveillance
- Verify licensing requirements - Baltimore City vs. County may differ
- Check State Police requirements - Surveillance companies need licensing
- Avoid privacy violations - Don't point cameras at private spaces
Stay Ahead of Permit Activity
Want to know when security camera 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.
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