Access Control Permit Requirements in Broward County, Florida

Installing access control systems in Broward County requires understanding local permit requirements and Florida state contractor licensing. This guide covers everything low voltage contractors need to know about permits for card readers, biometric systems, and electronic door hardware throughout Broward County and its municipalities.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, for most commercial installations. Broward County requires permits for low-voltage electrical work including security systems in commercial and multi-family buildings. Some residential exemptions apply.

When Permits Are Required

• Commercial access control systems - Card readers, biometric systems, electric strikes, mag locks
• Multi-family buildings - Apartments, condominiums, and multi-unit residential
• Systems integrated with fire alarm - Door release mechanisms tied to fire life safety
• New commercial construction - All access control work in new buildings
• Tenant improvements - Adding access control to existing commercial spaces

When Permits May Not Be Required

• Residential burglar/security systems - Single-family residential installations and repairs are exempt from permit requirements
• Wireless alarm systems - Per Florida Statute 553.793(2), wireless systems are exempt from permits
• Minor residential work - Some low-voltage residential work under certain thresholds

Important: Even when permits are not required, contractors must hold valid Florida state licenses.

Florida Contractor Licensing Requirements

Before performing access control work in Broward County, contractors must hold appropriate state licensure through the Florida DBPR.

Required License Types

License Type	Code	Scope
Electrical Contractor	EC	Full electrical including access control
Alarm System Contractor I	EF	All alarm systems including access control
Alarm System Contractor II	EG	Alarm systems excluding fire (includes access control)
Low Voltage Specialty	ES	Systems not exceeding 77 volts including electronic locks

Broward County Registration

State of Florida licensed contractors must be registered with Broward County to pull permits in unincorporated Broward County and contracted municipalities.

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

Broward County Permit Application Process

Step 1: Determine Jurisdiction

Broward County contains multiple jurisdictions:

• Unincorporated Broward: Apply through Broward County Building Division
• Fort Lauderdale: Use LauderBuild portal
• Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, etc.: Contact specific city for their requirements

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

• Broward County Uniform Building Permit Application
• Valid Florida contractor license number
• Project scope and specifications
• Plans (for larger commercial projects)
• Notice of Commencement (if job exceeds $2,500)

Step 3: Submit Application

Submit through Broward County Building Division or your specific municipality.

Step 4: Pay Fees and Schedule Inspection

Once approved, pay permit fees and schedule inspection upon completion.

Permit Fees

Item	Cost
Low Voltage Permit Fee	$40 maximum (state cap)
Notice of Commencement Threshold	Required for jobs over $2,500
Plan Review (if required)	Additional fees based on project

Municipal vs. County Permits

Many Broward County cities have their own permit requirements:

• Fort Lauderdale: LauderBuild online portal - paper applications no longer accepted
• Hollywood: Contact city building department
• Pembroke Pines: City permit process
• Coral Springs: City permit process
• Other municipalities: Contact specific city

Always verify which jurisdiction handles your permit based on the project address.

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Access Control

• Single-family homes - burglar/security systems exempt from permits
• Multi-family buildings follow commercial requirements
• Gate access systems for residential communities may require permits
• Wireless systems always exempt per state law

Commercial Access Control

• Nearly always requires permits
• Fire door integration requires fire marshal approval
• ADA compliance considerations for accessible entrances
• Tenant buildouts may need separate electrical permits

Inspection Requirements

Upon completion of your access control installation, schedule an inspection. Inspectors will verify:

• Proper installation per manufacturer specifications
• Correct wiring methods and materials
• Fire door release compliance (if applicable)
• Emergency egress requirements met
• Work matches approved permit scope

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Register with County: State license holders must register with Broward County to pull permits
• Check your municipality: Each city may have different requirements and portals
• Notice of Commencement: Record before starting if project exceeds $2,500
• Residential exemption: Single-family burglar/security systems are permit-exempt
• Check fire integration: Access control on fire-rated doors requires fire marshal review

Contact Information

Department	Contact
Broward County Building	(954) 765-4400
Building Code Services	building@broward.org
Address	2307 West Broward Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Planning & Development	(954) 357-6666
Florida DBPR (Licensing)	(850) 487-1395

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides

• Florida Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
• Broward County Fire Alarm Permit Requirements
• Fort Lauderdale Access Control Permit Requirements
• Miami-Dade County Access Control Permit Requirements