Security Camera Permit Requirements in Clackamas County, Oregon

Clackamas County covers a diverse area from suburban communities like Lake Oswego and Milwaukie to rural areas stretching toward Mt. Hood. Whether you're installing security cameras at a commercial facility in Oregon City or a residential property in West Linn, understanding local permit requirements keeps your projects compliant.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone security camera installations. Clackamas County does not require electrical permits for low-voltage security camera systems that don't involve conduit installation or penetrations through fire-rated assemblies. However, permits may be required when cameras are part of larger construction projects or when installation involves electrical work beyond simple low-voltage wiring.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Most security camera installations in Clackamas County are permit-exempt, but certain situations trigger permit requirements:

Permit Required:

• Conduit installation for camera wiring (electrical permit)
• Penetrations through fire-rated walls or ceilings
• Camera systems as part of tenant improvement or new construction
• Installations requiring inspection for certificate of occupancy
• Pole-mounted cameras requiring structural modifications
• Systems with integrated access control requiring door hardware modifications

Typically Permit-Exempt:

• Surface-mounted camera installations
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) camera systems
• Wireless security cameras
• Adding cameras to existing infrastructure
• NVR/DVR equipment installation
• Low-voltage cabling without conduit

What About Alarm Permits?

If your security camera system includes alarm monitoring or integrates with an alarm system, Clackamas County requires a separate alarm permit. This permit is valid for 12 months from the date of issuance and must be renewed annually. Contact the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office for alarm permit applications.

What Contractor License Do You Need in Oregon?

Oregon requires contractors performing security camera installations to hold a valid Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license:

• Limited Energy (LE) endorsement - Required for low-voltage security system work
• Residential Specialty Contractor - May perform work on residential or small commercial structures
• Commercial Specialty Contractor - For larger commercial installations

CCB license application costs $325 plus a $60 exam fee. Processing takes 4-8 weeks depending on application method.

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 for your security camera installation, Clackamas County Building Codes handles the application process:

Online Application

Licensed contractors can apply through Development Direct Self Service Permits. Electrical and mechanical permits that don't require plan review can be submitted online for faster processing.

Contact Information

Clackamas County Building Codes
Email: bldservice@clackamas.us
Phone: (503) 742-4240
Electrical Contractor License Verification: (503) 373-1268

Required Documentation

• Completed permit application
• Site plan showing camera locations
• CCB license number and proof of insurance
• Equipment specifications
• Wiring diagrams for complex installations

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Permit Type	Fee Range	Processing Time
Electrical (with conduit)	$85-$175+	1-3 business days
No Plan Review Required	Base fees apply	Same day possible
With Plan Review	Additional fees	2-4 weeks
Alarm Permit (annual)	Contact Sheriff	Varies

What About Residential vs. Commercial Projects?

Residential Security Cameras

Home security camera installations in Clackamas County typically don't require permits unless:

• Installing conduit runs through walls
• Penetrating fire-rated garage separations
• Part of new construction or major remodel
• Requiring electrical panel modifications

Commercial Security Cameras

Commercial installations may require permits when:

• Part of tenant improvement scope
• Requiring structural modifications for camera mounts
• Integrated with fire alarm or access control systems
• County inspection needed for occupancy certificate

Oregon Video Surveillance Laws

Beyond permits, Oregon has specific laws governing security camera use:

• Public areas - Video surveillance is legal in entrances, hallways, parking lots, and other areas without privacy expectation
• Private areas prohibited - No cameras in restrooms, break rooms, or private offices
• Audio recording - Oregon requires all-party consent for recording oral conversations; electronic conversations require one-party consent
• Signage recommended - Post visible notices that surveillance cameras are in use

Violation of audio surveillance laws is a Class A misdemeanor in Oregon.

Incorporated Cities Within Clackamas County

Several incorporated cities within Clackamas County handle their own permits:

• Oregon City - County seat
• Lake Oswego - (503) 635-0270
• Milwaukie - (503) 786-7600
• West Linn - (503) 656-4211
• Wilsonville - Uses Clackamas County ePermitting for electrical

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

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Use online permitting - Development Direct expedites simple electrical permits
• Check jurisdiction first - Many Clackamas County addresses are actually in incorporated cities
• Document audio capabilities - If cameras have audio, inform clients about Oregon's consent laws
• Coordinate with alarm companies - If monitoring is involved, ensure alarm permit is in place
• Keep records - Maintain installation documentation for warranty and service calls

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera 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.

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Related Permit Guides for Clackamas County

More Clackamas County permit guides coming soon for fire alarm, access control, and structured cabling installations.