Access Control Permit Requirements in Clark County, Nevada

Installing access control systems in Clark County, Nevada requires understanding both local permit requirements and state contractor licensing. This guide covers everything low voltage contractors need to know about permits, licensing, fees, and the application process for access control installations in unincorporated Clark County.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for basic low voltage work, but commercial installations require special licensing. Basic access control systems using existing power often do not require building permits. However, commercial installations require a Clark County Low Voltage Technician License, and any work involving new electrical circuits, door hardware modifications, or integration with fire alarm systems may require permits.

When Are Access Control Permits Required in Clark County?

While basic access control installations are often permit-exempt, the Clark County Building Department may require permits in these situations:

• Commercial tenant improvements involving door access systems
• Installations requiring new electrical circuits for power
• Electric strike or magnetic lock installations requiring door modifications
• Systems integrated with fire alarm for emergency egress
• Access control affecting building accessibility per Chapter 11 of Building Code
• Security barriers at checkpoints or building entrances
• New construction with integrated access infrastructure

What Access Control Work Is Typically Exempt?

According to Clark County Building Administrative Code Section 22.02.190, certain work may be exempt from building permits:

• Standalone card readers using existing power outlets
• Wireless access control systems not affecting building structure
• Replacement of existing access control components (like-for-like)
• Single-family residential access control systems
• Keypad or fob readers on existing doors without modifications
• IP-based access control using existing network infrastructure

Contact the Clark County Building Department at (702) 455-3000 to confirm whether your specific project requires a permit.

What Licenses Do You Need for Access Control in Clark County?

Clark County has specific licensing requirements for access control contractors:

Clark County Low Voltage Technician License

Clark County requires a Low Voltage Technician License for commercial jobs only. This license is not required for single-family dwellings per exemption (N) in Section 22.02.200 of the Clark County Building Administrative Code. Important: Multi-family residential is considered commercial and requires the license.

Nevada State Contractors Board C-2D License

The C-2D Low Voltage Systems license from the Nevada State Contractors Board is required for contractors installing access control systems. This covers the installation, alteration, and repair of systems that do not exceed 91 volts, including:

• Card readers and proximity systems
• Biometric access devices
• Keypads and PIN entry systems
• Electric strikes and magnetic locks
• Door controllers and panels
• Access control software integration

To obtain the C-2D license:

• Minimum 4 years experience as journeyman, foreman, or supervising employee
• Pass the Contractor Management Survey Exam
• Pass the C-2D Low Voltage Contractor Exam (35 questions, 70% passing score)
• Post a surety bond and provide proof of insurance
• Application fee: $300 | License fee: $600 for 2 years

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

Regulated Alarm Business License

Per Clark County Municipal Code Chapter 6.76, companies providing monitored access control or integrated alarm services require a Regulated Alarm Business License. This applies to both in-state and out-of-state monitoring companies.

Sheriff's Work Card

Employees of alarm systems licensees (including access control companies offering monitoring) must obtain a Sheriff's Work Card from the LVMPD Fingerprint Bureau. Employers must appear in person to obtain applications.

Multi-Jurisdictional Business License

Clark County participates in a multi-jurisdictional contractor's license program with Henderson, City of Las Vegas, and City of North Las Vegas. This allows contractors to work across Southern Nevada jurisdictions with streamlined licensing.

How Do You Apply for an Access Control Permit in Clark County?

When permits are required, Clark County uses the Accela Citizen Access Portal for all applications.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Determine if permit is required by contacting Building Department at (702) 455-3000
2. Create an account at the Citizen Access Portal
3. Select permit type - Electrical permits for access control typically fall under low voltage work
4. Prepare project documentation including door schedules, reader locations, wiring diagrams, and equipment specifications
5. Submit your application online through the portal
6. Pay applicable fees at the time of submittal
7. Coordinate with Fire Department if systems affect emergency egress
8. Receive approved permit before beginning work
9. Schedule inspections through the portal as needed
10. Obtain final approval upon project completion

Contact Information

Clark County Building Department
4701 West Russell Road, Las Vegas, NV 89118
Phone: (702) 455-3000
Citizen Access Portal

What Are the Fees for Access Control Permits?

Clark County permit fees are based on project valuation and type:

Fee Type	Estimated Cost
Low Voltage Permit (base)	$75-$150
Plan Check Fee	65% of permit fee
Electrical Permit	Based on circuits added
Re-inspection Fee	$50-$100
Fire Dept Review (if applicable)	Per fee schedule

Use the Citizen Access Portal fee estimator for accurate calculations based on your project scope.

How Long Does the Permit Process Take?

Permit processing times vary based on project complexity:

• Building Simple Online Permits: Processed immediately upon submission
• Standard plan review: 5-10 business days
• Complex commercial projects: 2-4 weeks
• Fire Department coordination: Additional 1-2 weeks if required

Track your permit status online through the Citizen Access Portal.

What Are the ADA and Accessibility Requirements?

Access control installations in Clark County must comply with Chapter 11 of the Southern Nevada Building Code for accessibility:

• Security barriers and checkpoints cannot obstruct required accessible routes
• Card readers must be mounted at accessible heights (typically 15-48 inches AFF)
• Door hardware must comply with accessibility standards for operation
• Security screening devices may require adjacent accessible routes
• Automatic door operators may be required for accessible entrances

What Are the Differences Between Residential and Commercial Projects?

Residential Projects

Single-family residential access control installations in Clark County:

• No building permit typically required
• No Low Voltage Technician License required
• State C-2D contractor license still required
• Common systems include smart locks, video doorbells, and gate access

Commercial Projects

Commercial installations (including multi-family residential) require:

• Clark County Low Voltage Technician License
• State C-2D contractor license
• Building permit if part of larger tenant improvement
• Fire Department coordination if affecting emergency egress doors
• ADA compliance verification
• Integration with building fire alarm for door release

What About Door Hardware Coordination?

Access control often requires coordination with door hardware. Common considerations:

• Electric strikes: Typically require door frame modification
• Magnetic locks: May require header or frame reinforcement
• Electrified hardware: Must coordinate with fire code for egress
• Delayed egress: Requires fire alarm integration and signage

Pricing in Nevada typically ranges from $1,000 to $4,000 per door for electronic access control, depending on technology and hardware selected.

Pro Tips for Access Control Contractors in Clark County

Based on contractor experience in Southern Nevada:

• Get proper licensing first - Clark County actively enforces the Low Voltage Technician requirement for commercial work
• Coordinate with fire alarm early - Emergency egress doors need fire alarm integration
• Know accessibility requirements - ADA compliance affects reader placement and door hardware
• Use the multi-jurisdictional license - Work across Las Vegas, Henderson, and North Las Vegas with one contractor's license
• Document door schedules - Keep records of all hardware specifications
• Plan for power - Battery backup and power supply requirements vary by system

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Nevada and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides in the Las Vegas Metro Area

• Security Camera Permits in Clark County, Nevada
• Fire Alarm Permits in Clark County, Nevada
• Access Control Permits in Las Vegas, Nevada
• Access Control Permits in Henderson, Nevada

Additional Resources

• Clark County Building Simple Permits
• Clark County Building Permit Exemptions
• Clark County Building Code Chapter 11 - Accessibility
• Nevada Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements