Security Camera Permit Requirements in Charleston, South Carolina

Installing security cameras in Charleston, South Carolina? Understanding permit requirements, licensing rules, and local considerations—including historic district regulations—helps contractors and property owners navigate compliance successfully.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Commercial installations require a Low Voltage electrical permit. The City of Charleston requires a Low Voltage (commercial only) electrical permit for commercial security camera installations. Residential installations typically do not require permits unless electrical work beyond plugging into existing outlets is involved. Historic district installations may have additional aesthetic requirements.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Permits Required:

• Commercial low voltage installations – Charleston requires Low Voltage electrical permits for commercial projects
• New electrical circuits – Adding dedicated circuits requires electrical permits
• Conduit installation – Running conduit may require permits
• Historic district installations – May require additional review for exterior equipment
• Alarm system integration – Systems connected to monitoring services

Permits Usually NOT Required:

• Residential plug-in cameras – Using existing outlets
• Battery or solar-powered cameras – No electrical work
• Wireless residential systems – No new wiring
• Camera replacements – Like-for-like swaps

South Carolina Privacy Laws

Before installing cameras, understand South Carolina's legal requirements:

Video Recording:

• Public spaces: Generally legal where no privacy expectation exists
• Private property: Legal on your own property with limitations
• "Peeping Tom" statute: SC Code § 16-17-470 prohibits invading others' privacy through windows, doors, or similar means

Audio Recording:

South Carolina is a one-party consent state. At least one person in the conversation must consent to audio recording. For security cameras with audio capability, posting notice is recommended.

Public Recording:

You can record individuals in public places without consent. However, you cannot point cameras toward neighbors' private areas—the "public place" aspect applies to truly public spaces, not views into private property.

What Contractor License Do You Need?

South Carolina requires specific licensing for security system installation:

Burglar Alarm Contractor License:

The South Carolina Contractor's Licensing Board issues the Burglar Alarm license, which covers:

• Design, installation, service, maintenance, or alteration of burglar alarm systems
• Heat and smoke sensors installed within burglar alarm systems
• Security camera systems integrated with alarm monitoring

License Requirements:

• Experience: 2 years of full-time commercial work experience within past 5 years
• Training: NTS Level I Certification from National Training School for Burglar Alarms
• Exams: SC Business and Law exam plus SC Burglar Alarms exam
• Background check: Required for principal officers and all qualifying parties
• Age: Must be at least 18 years old

SLED Registration:

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) handles Private Investigations & Security License/Registrations. Companies providing security services may need SLED registration in addition to contractor licensing.

For complete licensing details, see our South Carolina Low Voltage License Guide.

How Do You Apply for Permits in Charleston?

City of Charleston Permit Center

• Address: 2 George St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Phone: (843) 577-5550
• Email: permits@charleston-sc.gov
• Website: charleston-sc.gov/Permit-Center

Electrical Permit Application:

Download the Electrical Trade Permit Application which includes the "Low Voltage (commercial only)" category.

Application Process:

1. Prepare documentation – Site plans, equipment specifications
2. Submit application – Email to permits@charleston-sc.gov (PDF format only)
3. Pay fees – Based on project scope
4. Await review – Initial review typically 1-2 weeks
5. Receive permit – Print placard from CSS account once issued
6. Schedule inspection – Required upon completion

Important Submission Requirements:

• Only PDF format files accepted
• No links, JPEG files, or embedded documents
• All devices must be installed meeting NFPA 70E requirements

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Permit Type	Typical Fee Range	Processing Time
Low Voltage Electrical (Commercial)	$50-$150	1-2 weeks initial review
Standard Electrical	$75-$200	1-2 weeks
Historic District Review	Additional fees may apply	Additional review time

Complex projects may take longer. Contact the Permit Center for exact fees.

Historic District Considerations

Charleston is known for its historic architecture and preservation requirements. If installing cameras in the historic district:

• Exterior equipment placement – May require Board of Architectural Review (BAR) approval
• Aesthetic considerations – Equipment may need to be minimally visible or match building aesthetics
• Mounting methods – Historic structures may have restrictions on drilling or attachments
• Conduit visibility – Exposed conduit may not be permitted on historic facades

Contact the City of Charleston Planning & Zoning for historic district requirements before installation.

What's the Difference Between Residential and Commercial?

Residential Installations:

• Generally no permit required for plug-in systems
• Homeowner can self-install on own property
• Privacy considerations for neighboring properties
• Wireless and battery systems typically exempt

Commercial Installations:

• Low Voltage electrical permit required in Charleston
• Licensed Burglar Alarm contractor required
• Insurance and bonding requirements apply
• Inspection required upon completion
• Historic district may add requirements

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Get NTS certified first – The National Training School Level I certification is required before you can get your SC Burglar Alarm license.
• Check historic district boundaries – Charleston has extensive historic preservation areas. Verify before quoting exterior work.
• PDF only for permits – Charleston only accepts PDF format. Don't waste time with other file types.
• Mind the privacy laws – SC's "Peeping Tom" statute is broad. Ensure cameras don't capture neighbors' private spaces.
• Environmental challenges – Charleston's humidity and salt air require weather-resistant equipment rated for coastal environments.
• SLED registration – If offering monitoring or security services beyond installation, check SLED requirements.
• Contact SC Alarm Association – Call 803-252-0580 for NTS certification information and industry resources.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Charleston 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

Looking for permit requirements for other low voltage project types in Charleston? Check back soon as we expand our coverage:

• Fire Alarm Permits in Charleston (Coming Soon)
• Access Control Permits in Charleston (Coming Soon)
• Structured Cabling Permits in Charleston (Coming Soon)

For state-level licensing information, see our South Carolina Low Voltage License Guide.