Security Camera Permit Requirements in Charleston County, South Carolina

Installing security cameras and video surveillance systems in Charleston County requires understanding local permit processes, contractor licensing, and the unique considerations of this historic coastal region. This guide covers everything contractors and property owners need to know before starting a surveillance installation project.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone low voltage camera systems. Security camera installations operating at low voltage (under 50 volts) typically don't require electrical permits in Charleston County. However, the City of Charleston does have a "Low Voltage (commercial only)" category on their electrical permit application, so commercial installations may require permits depending on scope.

Do You Need a License to Install Security Cameras in South Carolina?

South Carolina has a notable exemption that benefits security camera installers. Under the SC Alarm Systems Business Act, camera systems, card access systems, and walk-through alarm systems are specifically exempt from burglar alarm licensing requirements.

This means standalone CCTV and IP camera installations can be performed without an alarm contractor license. However, if your security camera system is integrated with a monitored burglar alarm system, different requirements may apply.

For complete licensing details, see our guide: South Carolina Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements.

Charleston County Sheriff's Video Surveillance Registry

Charleston County offers a voluntary Video Surveillance System Registry Program (VSSRP) through the Sheriff's Office. Key points about this program:

• Voluntary registration: Residents and business owners can register camera locations with the Sheriff's Office
• Crime deterrence: Helps deputies identify nearby cameras when crimes occur
• Evidence collection: Footage containing criminal activity may be collected as evidence
• Not employment: Registrants are not agents of the Sheriff's Office

Register your cameras: Charleston County Sheriff's Security Camera Form

When Are Permits Required in Charleston?

Permit requirements vary based on jurisdiction and project scope:

City of Charleston

The City of Charleston Building Inspections Division handles electrical permits. Their permit application includes a specific category for "Low Voltage (commercial only)."

• Commercial installations: May require low voltage electrical permit
• Residential installations: Typically exempt for standalone cameras
• New construction: Camera rough-in included in building permit
• Historic districts: May have additional exterior mounting restrictions

Charleston County (Unincorporated)

For unincorporated Charleston County:

• Standalone cameras: Generally no permit required
• Part of larger project: May be included in building permit scope
• Commercial over $5,000: May trigger contractor licensing requirements

North Charleston

North Charleston has separate permitting. Contact their Building Department at (843) 740-2562 for specific requirements.

How Do I Apply for a Permit?

If your project requires a permit in the City of Charleston:

1. Create CSS account: Register on the City's permit system
2. Submit application: Complete the Electrical Trade Permit Application
3. Select inspections: Indicate required inspections (rough-in, above ceiling, final)
4. Pay fees: Receive invoice and pay online
5. Print permit: Download placard after payment processes (midnight following payment)
6. Schedule inspections: Request inspections as work progresses

Contact Information

City of Charleston Permit Center

• Address: 2 George Street, Ground Floor, Charleston, SC 29402
• Phone: (843) 724-7311 or (843) 577-5550
• Email: permits@charleston-sc.gov
• Website: Charleston Permit Center
• Permit Map: Permit Viewer Map

Charleston County Building Inspection Services

• Website: Charleston County Building Services

What Are the Fees for Security Camera Permits?

When permits are required in Charleston:

Fee Type	Amount	Notes
Inspection Required	$50+	Per Charleston County
No Inspection	No fee	If inspection not required
Commercial Electrical	Varies	Based on project scope

Contact the permit office directly for current fee schedules.

South Carolina Contractor Licensing

South Carolina's licensing structure includes several important exemptions and thresholds:

Key Licensing Points

• Camera system exemption: Standalone cameras exempt from alarm licensing
• 50-volt exemption: Work at or below 50 volts exempt from electrical licensing
• Commercial threshold: Projects over $5,000 require licensed contractor
• Residential threshold: Projects over $200 require licensing

South Carolina Contractors' Licensing Board

• Address: 110 Centerview Drive, Columbia, SC 29210
• Phone: (803) 896-4686
• Email: Contact.CLB@llr.sc.gov
• Website: SC Contractors' Licensing Board

How Long Does the Permit Process Take?

Typical timelines for Charleston permits:

Process	Timeline	Notes
Application Review	1-5 business days	Depends on complexity
Permit Issuance	Midnight after payment	Automatic after payment
Inspections	24-48 hours	After scheduling

Residential vs Commercial Security Cameras

Residential Installations

For home security cameras in Charleston County:

• Standalone camera systems typically don't require permits
• Homeowners can install their own camera systems
• If hiring a contractor for projects over $200, verify licensing
• Consider registering with Sheriff's VSSRP program
• Follow South Carolina privacy laws for camera placement

Commercial Installations

For business security camera projects:

• City of Charleston may require low voltage permit
• Projects over $5,000 require licensed contractors
• Historic district installations may have exterior restrictions
• Consider environmental factors (coastal humidity, salt air)
• Coordinate with general contractor for new construction

South Carolina Security Camera Privacy Laws

When installing security cameras in Charleston County, follow these legal requirements:

Legal Camera Placement

• Public areas: Recording permitted where no reasonable expectation of privacy
• Your property: Recording on your own property is allowed
• With consent: Recording with property owner consent is permitted

Prohibited Placement

• Private spaces: Bedrooms, bathrooms, changing rooms strictly prohibited
• Peeping Tom law: South Carolina prohibits "spying upon or invading the privacy" of others
• Audio recording: Recording conversations without consent can be a felony

Audio Recording Considerations

South Carolina law makes it a felony to record in-person or telephone conversations without at least one party's consent. If installing cameras with audio, ensure proper consent or disable audio recording.

Pro Tips for Charleston Area Projects

1. Verify jurisdiction: City of Charleston, North Charleston, and unincorporated Charleston County have different requirements
2. Historic districts: Check BAR (Board of Architectural Review) requirements for exterior camera mounting in historic areas
3. Coastal environment: Use cameras rated for humidity and salt air exposure
4. Register with Sheriff: Consider the voluntary VSSRP program to assist law enforcement
5. Document installation: Keep records even when permits aren't required
6. File format: City only accepts PDF files for permit applications

Historic District Considerations

Charleston is known for its historic preservation. If installing exterior cameras in historic districts:

• Check with the Board of Architectural Review (BAR) for exterior mounting restrictions
• Consider discrete camera placement that doesn't detract from historic character
• Exterior wiring may need to be concealed
• Some areas may have specific guidelines for security equipment

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

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Related Permit Guides

• South Carolina Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements

Last updated: January 2026. Always verify current requirements with the City of Charleston Permit Center at (843) 724-7311 or Charleston County Building Services before starting work.