Security Camera Permit Requirements in Columbia, South Carolina

Installing security cameras in Columbia, South Carolina? Understanding permit requirements, licensing rules, and state privacy laws helps contractors and property owners navigate compliance successfully in the state capital.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Permits may be required for commercial installations. The City of Columbia requires permits for electrical work, which may include commercial security camera installations involving new wiring. Columbia uses a Building Trade Permit system for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work. Residential plug-in or wireless cameras typically do not require permits.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Permits Usually Required:

• Commercial electrical work – Building Trade Permit for new wiring
• New electrical circuits – Adding dedicated circuits for camera systems
• Conduit installation – Running conduit may trigger permit requirements
• System integration – Cameras tied to alarm monitoring services
• New construction – Security cameras part of overall building permit

Permits Usually NOT Required:

• Wireless cameras – Plugging into existing outlets
• Battery or solar-powered cameras – No electrical work
• PoE systems using existing network – No new wiring
• Camera replacements – Like-for-like swaps
• Residential plug-in systems – Using existing power

South Carolina Privacy Laws

Before installing cameras, understand South Carolina's legal requirements:

Video Recording:

• Public spaces: Legal where no privacy expectation exists
• Private property: Legal on your own property with limitations
• SC Code § 16-17-470: Prohibits purposefully invading others' privacy
• No intrusion tort: SC doesn't recognize intrusion upon seclusion tort

Audio Recording:

South Carolina is a one-party consent state. At least one party to the conversation must consent to audio recording. Post notice if enabling audio on security cameras.

Prohibited Locations:

• Bedrooms, bathrooms, changing rooms
• Areas with reasonable expectation of privacy
• Neighbors' private spaces (don't point at their windows)

What Contractor License Do You Need?

South Carolina requires specific licensing for security system installation:

Burglar Alarm Contractor License:

The SC Contractor's Licensing Board issues Burglar Alarm licenses covering:

• Design, installation, service of burglar alarm systems
• Security camera systems integrated with alarm monitoring
• Heat and smoke sensors within alarm systems

License Requirements:

• NTS Level I or II certification – From National Training School
• Exams: SC Business and Law exam plus Burglar Alarm exam
• Background check: Required for principal officers
• Insurance: $100,000 minimum liability coverage
• License fee: $200 to SCCLB

Important Note:

SC Code exempts "camera, card access, or walk-through alarm systems" from certain Alarm Act provisions. Standalone camera systems (not integrated with monitored alarms) may have different requirements.

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

How Do You Apply for Permits in Columbia?

City of Columbia Development Center

• Address: 1401 Main Street, 3rd Floor, Columbia, SC
• Phone: (803) 545-3483
• Inspections: (803) 545-3422
• Email: BuildingInspections@columbiasc.gov
• Website: planninganddevelopment.columbiasc.gov

Online Portal:

Use the City's Access portal to submit applications, upload plans, and track progress.

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 if unavailable online
4. Pay fees – Online or in-person 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.

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 permits
Inspection	Included	Next-day if before 3 PM

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

What's the Difference Between Residential and Commercial?

Residential Installations:

• Plug-in/wireless systems generally no permit required
• Homeowner can self-install on own property
• $25 plan review fee if permit needed
• Privacy considerations for neighboring properties

Commercial Installations:

• Building Trade Permit likely required
• Licensed Burglar Alarm contractor recommended
• Insurance and bonding requirements
• Inspection required upon completion
• Integration with access control or alarm systems

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Use the Access portal – Columbia's online system streamlines applications and inspection scheduling.
• 3 PM cutoff – Schedule inspections before 3 PM for next-day availability. No same-day inspections.
• Know the camera exemption – Standalone cameras may be exempt from full Alarm Act licensing. Verify with SCCLB.
• Mind the privacy laws – SC doesn't have strong intrusion protections, but don't capture neighbors' private areas.
• Get NTS certified – Required for Burglar Alarm license if doing integrated security work.
• Email backup – If portal issues arise, Development Center accepts email submissions.
• Contact SCCLB first – (803) 896-4686 for licensing questions specific to your scope.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera 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

Looking for permit requirements for other low voltage project types in Columbia? Check back soon as we expand our coverage:

• Fire Alarm Permits in Columbia (Coming Soon)
• Access Control Permits in Columbia (Coming Soon)
• Structured Cabling Permits in Columbia (Coming Soon)

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