Access Control Permit Requirements in Bowling Green, Kentucky

Installing electronic access control systems in Bowling Green requires contractor licensing through the Bowling Green/Warren County Contractor's Licensing Board. While Kentucky has no statewide access control licensing, Bowling Green has established local requirements for contractors. Here's what you need to know about permits and licensing.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on the scope. Stand-alone access control systems typically don't require building permits in Bowling Green. However, contractors must be licensed through the Contractor's Licensing Board, and permits are required when access control integrates with fire alarm systems, involves electrical work over low voltage, or is part of a larger construction project.

When Are Permits Required for Access Control?

The Bowling Green Building Division requires permits when:

• Access control integrates with fire alarm or life safety systems
• Magnetic locks installed on fire-rated doors
• Electrical work beyond low-voltage required
• System is part of new construction or major renovation
• Building modifications required for installation
• Systems affect means of egress

Alarm Registration

If access control includes monitored alarm features, an alarm permit may be required.

Generally Exempt from Building Permits

• Stand-alone card reader systems
• Battery-powered keypad locks
• Low-voltage access control not affecting egress
• Residential smart lock installations

What Contractor Licensing Does Bowling Green Require?

Local Level: Contractor's Licensing Board

The Bowling Green/Warren County Contractor's Licensing Board requires licensing:

License Type	Fee	When Required
Specialty Contractor	$100	Access control subcontract work
General Contractor	$250	Two+ subcontractors per job

Application Requirements

• Insurance: Certificate of General Liability ($100,000 minimum per occurrence)
• Certificate holder: Contractor's Licensing Board must be listed
• Occupational license: Required for work within city limits

State Level: No Statewide License

Kentucky does not require a statewide license for access control installation. For comprehensive state information, see our Kentucky Low Voltage License Guide.

How Do You Apply for Permits and Licensing?

Contractor License Application

1. Obtain application from Contractor's Licensing Board
2. Secure Certificate of Insurance ($100,000 minimum GL)
3. List Contractor's Licensing Board as certificate holder
4. Submit completed application with fee
5. Obtain Bowling Green Occupational License for city work

Building Permits (When Required)

1. Submit plans to Building Division
2. Await plan review
3. Pay permit fees
4. Schedule inspection after installation

Contact Information:

• Contractor's Licensing Board: (270) 781-3530
• Building Division: (270) 393-3615
• Occupational License: (270) 393-3000 (Finance Department)
• Address: 1141 State Street Suite 200, Bowling Green, KY 42101

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Service	Fee	Timeline
Specialty Contractor License	$100	7-14 business days
General Contractor License	$250	7-14 business days
Building Permit (when required)	Based on valuation	7-14 business days
Electrical Permit	Based on scope	3-7 business days
Occupational License	Varies	5-10 business days

What's the Difference Between Residential and Commercial Projects?

Residential Access Control

Home installations in Bowling Green typically:

• Require no building permit for stand-alone systems
• Smart locks and keypad entry generally exempt
• Contractor licensing still required for professional installation
• Alarm registration if connected to monitoring

Commercial Access Control

Business installations require:

• Contractor licensing (specialty or general)
• Building permits if affecting structure or egress
• Fire detection permits if integrating with fire alarm
• ADA compliance for accessibility
• Coordination with building management

Warren County (Outside City Limits)

The Contractor's Licensing Board covers both Bowling Green AND Warren County:

• Same licensing requirements apply countywide
• City occupational license not required outside city limits
• Warren County Building Services handles county permits

Fire Alarm Integration Requirements

When access control interfaces with life safety systems:

• Magnetic locks on fire doors: Must release on fire alarm activation
• Emergency egress: Doors must allow free exit at all times
• Fire detection permit: Required for integrated systems
• NFPA compliance: Follow life safety code requirements

Pro Tips for Bowling Green Access Control Contractors

• Get licensed first: $100 specialty contractor license required—don't skip it
• Insurance is mandatory: $100,000 GL minimum with Board as certificate holder
• Joint city-county board: One license covers Bowling Green AND Warren County
• Occupational license is separate: Required for city work—contact Finance Department
• Fire door compliance: Magnetic locks need fail-safe or fire alarm release
• Board hours: Closed 12-1 p.m. for lunch—plan visits accordingly

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides for Bowling Green

• Security Camera Permits in Bowling Green
• Fire Alarm Permits in Bowling Green
• Structured Cabling Permits in Bowling Green

Last updated: January 2025. Verify current requirements with the Bowling Green/Warren County Contractor's Licensing Board before bidding projects.