Security Camera Permit Requirements in Chatham County, Georgia

Quick Answer: Chatham County does not require permits for standalone security camera installations. However, all electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work requires a permit unless waived by the Director of Inspections. Installers must hold a valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license (LVA or LVU) and a local Business Tax Certificate to perform commercial security camera work.

When Are Permits Required?

Chatham County follows Georgia state building codes for security camera installations. Permit requirements depend on the scope of work:

Permits Typically Required

• Electrical work: New circuits, panel modifications, or high-voltage connections for camera systems
• Structural modifications: Mounting poles, wall penetrations, or exterior installations requiring structural support
• Commercial new construction: Security systems as part of new building projects
• Integrated systems: Cameras tied to fire alarm or access control systems requiring additional permits

Permits Typically Not Required

• Standalone IP camera installations using existing network infrastructure
• Wireless security cameras with battery or solar power
• Replacing or upgrading existing camera systems
• Residential security camera installations
• Low-voltage wiring that does not involve structural changes

Georgia Contractor Licensing Requirements

All security camera installation work in Chatham County requires a valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license issued by the Georgia Secretary of State.

Applicable License Types

License Class	Designation	Security Camera Coverage
Unrestricted	LVU	All security camera and surveillance work
Alarm	LVA	Security cameras as part of alarm/security systems
General	LVG	Limited CCTV work not tied to alarm systems

Local Business License: Chatham County requires contractors to have a valid Local Business Tax Certification in addition to the state license. Contractors must provide copies of both licenses when applying for permits.

Voltage Limitation: Low voltage contractors cannot perform work on systems exceeding 50 volts AC or 30 volts DC. A licensed electrical contractor is required for dedicated circuits and high-voltage connections.

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

Chatham County Permit Application Process

When permits are required, follow this process with Chatham County Building Safety & Regulatory Services:

Step 1: Gather Documentation

Before submitting, prepare:

• Completed permit application form
• Copy of Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license
• Local Business Tax Certification
• Project plans showing camera locations (for commercial projects)
• Electrical load calculations if new circuits required

Step 2: Submit Application

Submit completed applications with all attachments to:

Chatham County Building Safety & Regulatory Services
1117 Eisenhower Drive
Savannah, GA 31406

Applications accepted Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Note: Applications cannot be submitted by fax or email.

Step 3: Plan Review

Applications with incomplete documentation will be returned. Ensure all required materials are included to avoid delays. Allow 5-10 business days for review depending on project complexity.

Step 4: Inspections

Once approved, schedule inspections as required. Keep a copy of approved permit plans on the property at all times during work.

Re-inspection Policy: After a second failed inspection, a $30.00 re-inspection fee applies. Re-inspections can be scheduled for the next available day after fee payment.

Contact Information

Chatham County Building Safety & Regulatory Services
1117 Eisenhower Drive
Savannah, GA 31406
Website: buildingsafety.chathamcountyga.gov

Fees and Timeline

Service	Estimated Cost	Timeline
Low Voltage/Alarm Permit	$50-$100	3-5 business days
Electrical Permit	Based on scope	5-10 business days
Re-inspection Fee	$30.00	Next available day
Commercial Plan Review	Varies	5-15 business days

Georgia Security Camera Privacy Laws

When installing security cameras in Chatham County, installers and property owners must comply with Georgia state privacy laws:

Where Cameras Are Permitted

• Public areas of commercial properties
• Exterior building perimeters
• Parking lots and common areas
• Private residential property (with limitations)

Where Cameras Are Prohibited

• Bathrooms and locker rooms
• Areas where employees have a reasonable expectation of privacy
• Recording private activities without consent
• Neighboring properties without permission

Audio Recording Requirements

Georgia is a one-party consent state for audio recording. At least one party in a conversation must consent to being recorded. If using cameras with audio capabilities, inform individuals of the possibility of audio recording through proper signage.

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Security Cameras

Home security camera installations in Chatham County typically require no permit for:

• Doorbell cameras and video intercoms
• Wireless outdoor cameras
• Indoor monitoring systems
• DIY installation using existing electrical outlets

HOA Considerations: If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners association, additional restrictions may apply. HOAs may require approval for external cameras, mandate aesthetic guidelines, or restrict camera placement to avoid filming neighboring properties.

Commercial Security Cameras

Commercial projects have additional requirements:

• Licensed contractor required: Georgia LVA or LVU license mandatory
• Local business license: Chatham County Business Tax Certification required
• Plan review: May be required for new construction or major installations
• Privacy compliance: Ensure cameras do not record protected areas

City of Savannah vs. Unincorporated Chatham County

Permit requirements may differ depending on your location:

• Unincorporated Chatham County: Contact Chatham County Building Safety & Regulatory Services
• City of Savannah: Contact Savannah Building Permits for city-specific requirements
• Other municipalities: Garden City, Pooler, Bloomingdale, and Tybee Island have their own permitting processes

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Verify jurisdiction first: Determine whether your project is in the City of Savannah, unincorporated Chatham County, or another municipality before applying for permits
• Complete documentation: Incomplete applications will be returned—double-check all required licenses and plans before submission
• In-person submission only: Chatham County does not accept faxed or emailed permit applications
• Keep permits on-site: Approved permit plans must be available at the property during all work
• Privacy signage: For commercial installations with audio recording, post clear signage to comply with Georgia consent laws

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Guides

• Georgia Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Savannah, Georgia
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Atlanta, Georgia