Security Camera Permit Requirements in Bucks County, Pennsylvania

Installing security cameras in Bucks County, Pennsylvania requires understanding both local permit requirements and Pennsylvania's strict surveillance laws. This guide covers what contractors and property owners need to know.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no, for camera installation alone. Most Bucks County municipalities do not require permits for low-voltage security camera wiring in residential applications. However, commercial installations and projects requiring electrical work may need permits depending on your specific township.

When Permits Are Required

Security camera permits may be required when:

• Installing new electrical circuits for camera equipment
• Mounting cameras on structures requiring building modifications
• Commercial installations with extensive wiring
• Projects penetrating fire-rated assemblies
• Outdoor pole-mounted camera installations
• Integration with fire alarm or access control systems

When Permits Are NOT Required

According to Newtown Township guidelines, permits are NOT required for:

• Low voltage communications wiring (residential)
• Wireless camera installations
• Battery-powered security cameras
• Like-for-like camera replacements
• Surface-mounted cameras with existing power

Note: Requirements vary by municipality. Always verify with your local building department.

Pennsylvania Wiretap Law - Critical Compliance

Pennsylvania is a two-party consent state with strict surveillance laws. This significantly impacts security camera installations:

Video Recording

• Video-only recording is generally permitted on your own property
• Cameras cannot point into areas with reasonable privacy expectations
• Cannot record in bathrooms, bedrooms, or changing areas
• Incidental capture of neighbor's property is acceptable; direct surveillance is not

Audio Recording

• All parties must consent to audio recording
• Recording audio without consent is a third-degree felony
• Penalties include up to 7 years imprisonment and $15,000 fines
• Recommendation: Disable audio recording on all cameras or post clear notices

Workplace Cameras

• Explicitly notify employees about camera placement
• Install only in public areas without privacy expectations
• Avoid audio recording in workplace settings
• Post visible surveillance notices

Pennsylvania Contractor Licensing

Pennsylvania does not have a statewide low-voltage contractor license. However:

• Home Improvement Contractor Registration: Required for residential work over $500 through the PA Attorney General's Office
• Municipal Registration: Some Bucks County townships require local contractor registration
• Insurance: Proof of liability insurance typically required

For detailed statewide requirements, see our Pennsylvania Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

Bucks County Municipal Permit Offices

Bucks County uses a decentralized permitting system. Contact your project's municipality:

Municipality	Contact	Notes
Doylestown Township	(215) 348-9915	Online permit portal
Bensalem Township	(215) 633-3600	Building & Code department
Middletown Township	(215) 750-3800	Online applications available
Newtown Township	(215) 968-2800	Low voltage exempt (residential)
Lower Makefield Township	(215) 493-3646	Code enforcement office
Warwick Township	(215) 343-6100	Building permits department

Application Process

When permits are required:

1. Identify your municipality: Determine the township or borough
2. Contact building department: Verify requirements for your project scope
3. Prepare documentation: Site plans, camera locations, wiring diagrams
4. Submit application: Include contractor credentials and insurance
5. Pay fees: Varies by municipality
6. Schedule inspection: Required for permitted work

Fees and Timeline

Item	Typical Range
Building Permit (if required)	$50-$150
Electrical Permit	$75-$175
Plan Review (commercial)	$100-$250
Processing Time	3-10 business days

Residential vs. Commercial Projects

Residential Security Cameras

• Typically exempt from permits for low-voltage wiring
• Must comply with PA wiretap law (no audio without consent)
• Cannot surveil neighbor's private property
• Contractor must be PA Home Improvement registered

Commercial Security Cameras

• May require building permits depending on scope
• Employee notification required for workplace cameras
• Signage posting recommended
• Higher documentation requirements
• Integration with other systems may trigger additional permits

Bucks County Camera Registry

The Bucks County Sheriff's Office offers a voluntary camera registry program. Benefits include:

• Collaboration with law enforcement for crime deterrence
• Footage may be requested for criminal investigations
• Information kept confidential from public
• No obligation, purely voluntary participation

Pro Tips from Bucks County Contractors

• Disable audio by default: Pennsylvania's two-party consent law makes audio recording risky
• Post signage: "Video Surveillance in Use" signs provide legal protection
• Document camera angles: Show that cameras don't capture private areas
• Know your township: Requirements vary across Bucks County's 50+ municipalities
• Consider the registry: The Sheriff's voluntary camera registry builds community safety
• Plan for power: PoE systems reduce electrical permit requirements

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Bucks County before they reach bid boards?

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides

• Philadelphia Security Camera Permits
• Pittsburgh Security Camera Permits
• Montgomery County Security Camera Permits
• Allegheny County Security Camera Permits