Access Control Permit Requirements in Clackamas County, Oregon

Clackamas County spans from suburban Portland communities to Mt. Hood's foothills, with access control installations ranging from office buildings in Oregon City to warehouses in Milwaukie. Understanding local permit requirements helps keep your projects compliant and on schedule.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on the installation scope. Standalone electronic access control systems using low-voltage wiring typically don't require electrical permits in Clackamas County. However, permits are required when installations involve door hardware modifications, fire-rated door alterations, integration with fire alarm systems, or conduit installation.

When Are Permits Required for Access Control?

Access control installations in Clackamas County may require permits based on scope:

Permit Required:

• Modifications to fire-rated doors or frames
• Electric strike or maglock installation requiring door prep
• Integration with fire alarm systems (fire code review required)
• Conduit installation for wiring
• Access control as part of tenant improvement projects
• Systems affecting building egress or life safety
• ADA automatic door operators

Typically Permit-Exempt:

• Standalone card readers and keypads
• Low-voltage wiring without conduit
• Access control panels and controllers
• Wireless lock installations
• Replacement of existing access hardware
• Intercom and video entry systems (standalone)

What About Fire-Rated Doors?

Access control on fire-rated doors requires coordination with the Fire Marshal:

• Electric strikes and maglocks must be listed for fire-rated assemblies
• Fire alarm integration required for fail-safe release on egress doors
• Clackamas Fire District #1 reviews access control affecting fire-rated assemblies
• Contact Fire Marshal at (503) 742-2660 for fire code questions

What Contractor License Do You Need in Oregon?

Oregon requires proper licensing for access control installations:

• Limited Energy (LE) endorsement - Required CCB endorsement for low-voltage work
• General Contractor license - If scope includes door modifications
• Locksmith license - Oregon doesn't require separate locksmith licensing, but CCB license covers the work

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

How Do You Apply for a Permit in Clackamas County?

When permits are required, Clackamas County Building Codes handles applications:

Online Application

Apply through Development Direct Self Service Permits for electrical permits not requiring plan review.

In-Person

Clackamas County Development Services Building
150 Beavercreek Road
Oregon City, OR 97045
Phone: (503) 742-4240
Email: bldservice@clackamas.us
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8 AM - 4 PM

Fire Code Review (if required)

Clackamas Fire District #1 Fire Marshal
11300 SE Fuller Road
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Phone: (503) 742-2660

Required Documentation

• Permit application
• Site plan showing door locations
• Equipment specifications and cut sheets
• Door schedule with fire ratings noted
• Wiring diagrams
• CCB license and insurance documentation

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Permit Type	Fee Range	Processing Time
Electrical (low-voltage)	$85-$150	1-3 business days
Building (door modifications)	Based on valuation	1-2 weeks
Fire Code Review	Project dependent	2-4 weeks

What About Residential vs. Commercial Projects?

Residential Access Control

Home access control systems in Clackamas County typically don't require permits:

• Smart locks and keypad entry systems
• Video doorbells and intercom systems
• Gate operators (may require electrical permit for power)
• Garage door controls

Commercial Access Control

Commercial installations may require permits when:

• Part of tenant improvement or new construction
• Affecting fire-rated doors or egress paths
• Integrated with building fire alarm system
• ADA compliance modifications required
• Inspection needed for certificate of occupancy

ADA Compliance Considerations

Access control installations must comply with ADA requirements:

• Card readers mounted 48" maximum height
• Automatic door operators may be required at accessible entrances
• Hardware must be operable without tight grasping or twisting
• Coordinate with building department for ADA-related permits

Incorporated Cities in Clackamas County

Several cities handle their own permits:

• Oregon City - County seat
• Lake Oswego - (503) 635-0270
• Milwaukie - (503) 786-7600
• West Linn - (503) 656-4211
• Gladstone - Uses Clackamas County services

Verify your project falls under county or city jurisdiction before applying.

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Check fire ratings first - Know which doors are fire-rated before quoting; this affects hardware choices and permits
• Coordinate with Fire Marshal early - Fire alarm integration requires advance planning
• Document door prep - Take photos before and after door modifications for warranty purposes
• Use online permitting - Simple electrical permits process faster through Development Direct
• Verify jurisdiction - County boundaries can be confusing in metro areas

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when access control projects hit permits in Clackamas County before they reach bid boards?

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Clackamas County

• Security Camera Permits in Clackamas County
• Fire Alarm Permits in Clackamas County