Access Control Permit Requirements in Bloomington, Minnesota

Installing access control systems in Bloomington, Minnesota requires understanding both local building permit requirements and state contractor licensing. This guide covers what contractors and property owners need to know about permits for card readers, electronic locks, and integrated access control systems.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on the scope. Standalone electronic locks and battery-powered card readers typically do not require permits. However, hardwired access control systems that involve electrical work, integration with fire alarm systems, or modifications to means of egress may require electrical permits through Minnesota DLI or building permits from Bloomington. When in doubt, contact Building and Inspections at 952-563-8930.

What Access Control Work Requires a Permit in Bloomington?

Access control permit requirements depend on the type of installation and its integration with other building systems:

Work That Typically Requires Permits

• Hardwired access control systems with new electrical circuits
• Magnetic locks (maglocks) that require fire alarm integration
• Electric strikes or electromagnetic locks on egress doors
• Systems integrated with fire alarm panels for door release
• Access control affecting means of egress compliance
• New conduit runs and low-voltage wiring in commercial buildings
• Panel installations requiring dedicated power circuits

Work That May Be Exempt

• Standalone battery-powered electronic locks
• Wireless card readers with no building modifications
• Key fob systems on existing door hardware
• Replacing like-for-like access control components
• Software and credential management only

Even exempt work must comply with fire and life safety codes. Any access control on egress doors must meet Minnesota State Fire Code requirements for emergency egress.

Licensing Requirements

Access Control Systems installation in Bloomington requires proper state licensing. Contractors must hold a valid Power Limited Technician (PLT) license from Minnesota DLI, and companies must be licensed as a Technology Systems Contractor (TSC). For complete Minnesota license requirements, exam information, and application steps, see our Minnesota Low Voltage License Guide.

How to Apply for Permits in Bloomington

Bloomington uses an online permit system for all building permit applications.

Application Process

1. Access the Permit Portal at permits.bloomingtonmn.gov
2. Create an account or log in with existing credentials
3. Select permit type - typically electrical or low-voltage for access control
4. Enter project details including scope, location, and contractor information
5. Upload documentation as required for your project scope
6. Pay applicable fees
7. Schedule inspections when work is ready

Required Documentation

For larger access control projects, you may need to provide:

• System layout drawings showing device locations
• Riser diagrams for multi-door systems
• Equipment specifications and cut sheets
• Contractor license information (TSC number)
• Fire alarm integration details if applicable
• Sequence of operations for egress doors

What Are the Fees for Access Control Permits?

Bloomington calculates permit fees based on project type and scope. For electrical permits involving access control:

Permit Type	Fee Structure
Complete wiring (new dwelling)	$150 per dwelling
Electrical service/panel work	$55
Low-voltage systems	Based on project valuation

For specific fee quotes, contact Building and Inspections at 952-563-8930 with your project details.

How Long Does the Permit Process Take?

Typical timelines for access control permits in Bloomington:

Project Type	Estimated Timeline
Small commercial (1-5 doors)	1-3 business days
Medium commercial (6-25 doors)	3-7 business days
Large commercial or multi-building	7-14 business days
Projects with fire alarm integration	Additional review time

Complex projects requiring final site and building plan (FS&BP) approval may take longer.

Fire and Life Safety Requirements

Access control on egress doors must comply with the Minnesota State Fire Code adopted by Bloomington. Key requirements include:

Emergency Egress

• All access-controlled egress doors must allow immediate free egress without special knowledge or effort
• Magnetic locks must release upon fire alarm activation
• Request-to-exit (REX) devices must be installed at controlled egress points
• Door hardware must fail-safe (unlock) upon power loss unless specifically approved fail-secure

Fire Alarm Integration

When access control integrates with fire alarm systems:

• Door releases must connect to the building's fire alarm panel
• Integration must be documented in fire alarm as-built drawings
• Testing must verify proper door release upon alarm activation
• Annual testing must include access control release verification

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Single-Family Residential

Most residential access control installations do not require permits. Smart locks, video doorbells with electronic locks, and residential card access systems typically can be installed without permits if no electrical work is involved. However, any work involving new electrical circuits requires electrical permits through Minnesota DLI.

Multi-Family Residential

Apartment buildings and condominiums often require permits for access control installations, particularly for:

• Building entry systems with intercoms
• Parking garage access control
• Common area door controls
• Systems integrated with fire alarm/life safety

Commercial Properties

Commercial access control typically requires permits when:

• New low-voltage wiring is installed
• Electrical panels or circuits are added
• Fire alarm integration is involved
• Means of egress is affected

Bloomington's large commercial presence, including Mall of America and major office parks, often involves complex access control with multiple integration points.

What Inspections Are Required?

Access control inspections typically include:

Rough-In Inspection

Before walls are closed (if applicable):

• Conduit and raceway installation
• Box placement for readers and controllers
• Power supply locations

Final Inspection

Upon system completion:

• Device installation per plans
• Proper operation of all controlled doors
• Emergency egress functionality
• Fire alarm integration testing (if applicable)
• Request-to-exit operation

Pro Tips for Access Control Projects in Bloomington

Based on contractor experience in the Twin Cities market:

• Clarify permit requirements early - Call Building and Inspections before bidding to confirm permit needs for your specific scope
• Coordinate fire alarm integration - If maglocks are involved, engage the fire alarm contractor early to coordinate panel connections
• Document egress compliance - Include sequence of operations for all egress doors in your submittal package
• Consider ADA requirements - Access control hardware must meet accessibility standards for timing and operation
• Plan for Mall of America projects - Mall projects have additional security coordination requirements beyond city permits
• Verify insurance requirements - Some commercial property managers require specific insurance coverage for access control contractors

Contact Information

For access control permit questions in Bloomington:

• Building and Inspections: 952-563-8930
• Planning Division: 952-563-8920 or planning@BloomingtonMN.gov
• Online Permit Portal: permits.bloomingtonmn.gov

For state licensing questions:

• Minnesota DLI Licensing: 651-284-5034
• Email: dli.license@state.mn.us
• License Lookup: dli.mn.gov/license-and-registration-lookup

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Permit Guides for Bloomington

• Security Camera Permits in Bloomington, Minnesota
• Fire Alarm Permits in Bloomington, Minnesota