Access Control Permit Requirements in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Quick Answer: Colorado Springs may require permits for access control installations depending on the scope of work. Permits are handled through the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD). While standalone low voltage access control may not always require a permit, work involving electrical connections, fire-rated door modifications, or integration with fire alarm systems will require permits and licensed contractors.

When Are Access Control Permits Required?

Access control permits in the Colorado Springs area are typically required when:

• Installation involves electrical connections to building power (120V+)
• Work modifies fire-rated doors or assemblies
• System integrates with fire alarm systems
• Installation requires new walls, doors, or frames
• Delayed egress or controlled egress systems are installed
• Work affects means of egress or emergency systems

Permits May Not Be Required For:

• Standalone low voltage card reader installations
• Wireless access control systems
• Simple electric strike or mag lock installations (under 50V)
• Keypad or intercom installations not affecting egress

Important: Always verify with PPRBD before beginning work, as requirements may vary based on specific project conditions.

Work Covered by Access Control Systems

Access control system work typically includes:

• Delayed egress systems
• Telephone entry systems
• Electric door strikes
• Electromagnetic locking hardware (mag locks)
• Electrified locksets
• Electrically operated panic hardware
• Card readers and credential systems
• Controllers and head-end equipment
• Power supplies not hardwired to building electrical
• Biometric access control devices

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Contractors must be licensed by Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD) prior to performing work that requires a permit. PPRBD serves:

• El Paso County
• Colorado Springs
• Fountain
• Woodland Park
• Manitou Springs
• Monument
• Palmer Lake

Relevant License Types

License Type	When Required	Issuing Agency
Electrical Contractor Registration	Electrical work over 50V	PPRBD
Fire Alarm Contractor (FAC-A/FAC-B)	Fire alarm integration	PPRBD
Building Contractor	New walls, doors, frames	PPRBD
Colorado State Electrical License	State-level electrical work	DORA

Note: PPRBD does not have a separate "access control contractor" license category. Access control work typically falls under electrical contractor registration or may require fire alarm contractor licensing if integrating with life safety systems.

Insurance Requirements

All contractors performing work under PPRBD jurisdiction must have:

• Liability Insurance: Required for all contractors
• Workers' Compensation: Required if contractor has employees
• Certificates must list "Pikes Peak Regional Building Department" as certificate holder

Permit Application Process

1. Verify License Requirements: Contact PPRBD at (719) 327-2880 to confirm licensing needs
2. Obtain Required License: Complete licensing process (6-8 weeks typical)
3. Prepare Documentation: Plans showing door locations, equipment, egress paths
4. Submit Application: Apply through PPRBD online portal or in person
5. Plan Review: Wait for approval
6. Permit Issuance: Receive permit upon approval
7. Perform Work: Complete installation per approved plans
8. Request Inspection: Schedule final inspection

Documentation Requirements

When permits are required, plans should include:

• All doors with mechanical free egress identified
• Location of all equipment (readers, controllers, power supplies, etc.)
• Emergency lighting and exit sign locations
• Path of egress travel to exits
• Door and hardware schedule
• Sequence of operations narrative
• System diagram with interconnections

Fire-Rated Door Requirements

When access control is installed on fire-rated doors:

• Modifications must be performed by a shop approved by the listing and labeling agency
• Documentation of modifications must be provided
• Fire rating of the assembly must be maintained
• Shop must be an "approved fabricator" per the labeling agency

Licensing Process Timeline

The PPRBD licensing process typically takes 6-8 weeks:

• All requirements must be met 3 weeks prior to Licensing Committee date
• Licensing Committee meets every 2nd Thursday of the month
• Background name-based judicial records check may take additional time

Fees

Fee Type	Amount	Notes
License Application	$50	Non-refundable
Permit Fees	Varies	Based on project scope
Plan Review	Varies	Included with permit

Contact PPRBD for current fee schedules.

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Access Control

• Single-family homes typically don't require permits for basic access control
• Smart locks and keypad systems generally permit-exempt
• Multi-family common area systems may require permits
• Gate and parking access in HOA communities may have additional requirements

Commercial Access Control

• Higher likelihood of permit requirement
• Egress compliance is strictly enforced
• ADA accessibility requirements apply
• Fire alarm integration requires fire alarm contractor license
• Elevator integration requires separate elevator permit

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Call PPRBD first: Permit requirements can vary—a quick call to (719) 327-2880 can clarify what's needed for your specific project
• Understand egress requirements: Access control systems must maintain mechanical free egress at all times
• Fire-rated doors need documentation: Any modifications to fire-rated assemblies require proper fabricator documentation
• Plan for licensing timeline: The 6-8 week licensing process means planning ahead is essential
• Verify contractor status: Customers can verify contractor licenses at pprbd.org or by calling (719) 327-2880

Contact Information

Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD)
2880 International Circle, Suite 200-1
Colorado Springs, CO 80910
Phone: (719) 327-2880
Fax: (719) 327-2951
Email: Licensing@pprbd.org
Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (closed 12:00-12:30 p.m.)
Website: pprbd.org

Contractor License Verification: pprbd.org/Licensing

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Guides

• Colorado Low Voltage Contractor Licensing Guide
• Colorado Springs Security Camera Permit Requirements
• Colorado Springs Fire Alarm Permit Requirements