Access Control Permit Requirements in Columbia, South Carolina

Installing access control systems in Columbia, South Carolina? Understanding permit requirements and the unique licensing landscape helps contractors and property owners navigate compliance in the state capital.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on the scope of work. Basic access control installations using low voltage wiring may require a Building Trade Permit for commercial projects in Columbia. Work involving new electrical circuits, door modifications, or fire alarm integration will require permits. Importantly, South Carolina Code explicitly excludes "card access" systems from certain Alarm Act licensing requirements.

When Are Permits Required for Access Control?

Permits Usually Required:

• Commercial electrical work – Building Trade Permit for new wiring
• New electrical circuits – Adding power for access control panels
• Door frame modifications – Cutting frames for electric strikes
• Fire alarm integration – Mag locks tied to fire systems require fire permits
• Automatic door openers – ADA compliance may require building permits
• New construction – Access control part of overall permit package

Permits Usually NOT Required:

• Standalone card readers – Low voltage devices using existing power
• Keypad locks – Battery-powered electronic locks
• Wireless access control – No new wiring required
• Device replacements – Like-for-like swaps
• Residential smart locks – Using existing power

What Contractor License Do You Need?

Important distinction: South Carolina Code explicitly states that the Alarm Systems Business Act does not apply to "camera, card access, or walk-through alarm systems." This gives access control installers more flexibility than alarm contractors.

Access Control Licensing Options:

Option 1: General Contractor (Standalone Systems)

• Business registration with SC Secretary of State
• General liability insurance
• Local business license
• May be sufficient for card access systems

Option 2: Burglar Alarm License (If Integrated with Alarm)

If access control integrates with a monitored alarm system:

• NTS Level I or II certification
• SC Business and Law exam plus Burglar Alarm exam
• $100,000 liability insurance minimum
• Criminal background check
• $200 license fee

Option 3: Electrical Contractor License

For work involving electrical modifications beyond low voltage:

• SC Electrical Contractor license required
• Needed if installing new circuits above 50 volts

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

How Do You Apply for Permits in Columbia?

Columbia Development Center

• Address: 1401 Main Street, 3rd Floor, Columbia, SC
• Phone: (803) 545-3483
• Email: BuildingInspections@columbiasc.gov
• Online Portal: columbia.onlama.com
• Website: planninganddevelopment.columbiasc.gov

Application Process:

1. Determine permit type – Building Trade Permit for electrical work
2. Complete application – Download from Planning & Development website
3. Submit via portal – Or email to Development Center
4. Pay fees – Online or at 1401 Main Street, 3rd floor
5. Await approval – Permit issuance follows approval and payment
6. Schedule inspection – Through Access portal (3:00 PM cutoff for next-day)

Building Trade Permit:

For electrical, mechanical, or plumbing work that doesn't require Zoning or Plans Examiner review, submit a Building Trade Permit application to the Development Center.

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Permit Type	Fee	Processing
Residential Plan Review	$25 at intake	Varies
Building Trade Permit	Based on scope	Faster than building
Fire Alarm Integration	Separate fire permit	Contact Fire Prevention

Contact Development Center at (803) 545-3483 for specific fees.

Fire Alarm Integration Requirements

If access control includes magnetic locks on egress doors:

• Fire alarm tie-in required – Mag locks must release on fire alarm
• Fire Prevention Division: (803) 545-3701
• Push-to-exit required – Manual override per code
• NFPA 72 compliance – For fire alarm interface

What's the Difference Between Residential and Commercial?

Residential Installations:

• Generally no permit required for smart locks
• Homeowner can self-install on own property
• Projects under $200 don't require contractor license
• Wireless systems typically exempt

Commercial Installations:

• Building Trade Permit may be required
• Licensed contractor recommended
• Fire alarm integration requires fire permits
• ADA compliance for door hardware
• Inspection required for permitted work

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Know the card access exemption – SC Code exempts card access from Alarm Act. This simplifies licensing for standalone systems.
• Watch the integration line – Once access control ties to a monitored alarm, alarm licensing may apply.
• Fire alarm tie-in is critical – Mag locks on egress must release on fire alarm. Coordinate with Fire Prevention.
• Use the Access portal – Columbia's online system streamlines applications and inspections.
• 3 PM cutoff – Schedule inspections before 3 PM for next-day availability.
• ADA matters – Commercial door hardware must meet height and operation requirements.
• Contact SCCLB if unsure – (803) 896-4686 for licensing clarification.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Columbia

• Security Camera Permits in Columbia
• Fire Alarm Permits in Columbia
• Structured Cabling Permits in Columbia (Coming Soon)

For state-level licensing information, see our South Carolina Low Voltage License Guide.