Access Control Permit Requirements in Dallas, Texas

Quick Answer: Yes, Dallas requires permits for electronic access control installations. Under Dallas Building Code Section 1010.2.11.3, a separate SE permit is required for electronic security devices. Contractors must hold a Texas DPS Class D Electronic Access Control Device Company license, and all installations must comply with egress code requirements and be tested by the Fire Marshal.

Do You Need a Permit for Access Control in Dallas?

Under the Dallas Building Code 2021, electronic security devices including access control systems require permits. The code specifies that a separate permit is required to install electronic security devices.

Permit Requirements

• Permit Type: SE permits (Electronic Security)
• Fee Basis: Based on the value of work
• Approval Required: Building official approval required
• Testing Required: Functional testing by the Fire Marshal

Exception: Delayed Egress Locks

Delayed egress locks meeting specific code criteria may not require separate permits. However, they must still comply with all building and fire code requirements.

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Texas DPS Private Security Bureau Licensing

Texas law requires electronic access control contractors to be licensed through the Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau.

Company Licenses

Class D - Electronic Access Control Device Company: Required for companies that install or maintain electronic access control devices.

Requirements include:

• Two consecutive years of experience in electronic access control
• Designated Company Representative who has passed the PSB examination
• Fingerprint-based background check
• Insurance and bond requirements per Section 1702.123
• Company license must be posted at place of business (Section 1702.128)

Class B - Combination License: Available for companies providing multiple security services including access control, alarm systems, and CCTV.

Company Representative Requirements

Each licensed company must have a designated Company Representative who:

• Meets eligibility requirements of Occupations Code Section 1702.113
• Has required experience (two consecutive years)
• Passes written examination administered by DPS

Examination Information

Exams are administered in Austin, Houston, and Irving. Bring:

• Valid Driver License or state-issued ID
• Printed copy of Private Security Statutes and Rules
• Two sharpened pencils with erasers

Individual Installer License

Technicians must hold an Electronic Access Control Device Installer license and be registered under a licensed company.

For complete licensing details, see our Texas Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

Code Requirements for Electronic Locks

Dallas follows the International Building Code with local amendments. There are two code-compliant approaches for electromagnetic locks on egress doors:

Option 1: Access-Controlled Egress Doors

This approach requires a sensor and push button as release devices:

• Sensor: Must be mounted on egress side to detect approaching occupants
• Automatic Unlock: Doors must unlock upon sensor signal or loss of power to sensor
• Push Button Requirements:
  • Must directly interrupt power to lock (independent of access control system)
  • Doors remain unlocked for minimum 30 seconds after activation
  • Height: 40 to 48 inches above floor
  • Location: Within 5 feet of doors
  • Signage: Must include "Push to Exit"
  • Ready access required
• Loss of Power: Must unlock doors

Option 2: Electromagnetically Locked Egress Doors

Added in the 2009 IBC, this approach allows a door-mounted release device:

• Listed hardware mounted on door leaf with built-in switch
• Must directly release electromagnetic lock immediately
• Obvious method of operation
• Readily operated with one hand under all lighting conditions
• Loss of power must automatically unlock door

Allowed Occupancy Groups

Electromagnetically locked egress doors are permitted in:

• Group A: Assembly
• Group B: Business
• Group E: Educational
• Group M: Mercantile
• Group R-1: Hotels, Motels, Boarding Houses
• Group R-2: Apartments, Dormitories

Delayed Egress Locks

Delayed egress systems are permitted in most occupancies except Group A (Assembly), E (Educational), and H (Hazardous) when:

• Building is equipped throughout with automatic sprinkler system, OR
• Building has approved automatic smoke or heat detection system
• Egress must be permitted in not more than 15 seconds
• Physical effort applied for not more than 3 seconds initiates irreversible unlock
• Audible signal must activate in vicinity of door

Fire Alarm Integration Requirements

Critical life safety requirement: If the building has a fire alarm system, sprinkler system, or fire detection system:

• Activation must automatically unlock all access-controlled doors
• Doors must remain unlocked until system is reset
• This is mandatory and non-negotiable

Application Process

Step 1: Obtain State Licensing

Ensure your company holds a Class D or Class B license from Texas DPS.

Step 2: Register in DallasNow

Dallas uses the DallasNow permitting system for permit applications. Create an account and register as a contractor.

Step 3: Submit Permit Application

Submit SE permit application through DallasNow including:

• Building Inspection Application
• Verification that security devices can be unlocked by Fire Marshal-approved signal
• Plans showing device locations and wiring
• Value of work for fee calculation

Step 4: Plan Review

Dallas Building Inspection reviews plans for code compliance including:

• Egress requirements
• Fire alarm integration
• Push button/sensor placement
• ADA accessibility

Step 5: Installation

Install system per approved plans. Ensure:

• All egress requirements are met
• Fire alarm integration functions properly
• Push buttons are at correct height with proper signage

Step 6: Fire Marshal Testing

Electronic security devices must be functionally tested by the Fire Marshal before approval.

Contact Information

Dallas Building Inspection
Phone: (214) 948-4480

DallasNow Permitting Portal
Online Permit Portal

Texas DPS Private Security Bureau
dps.texas.gov/section/private-security

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Know both compliance paths: Understand the difference between Access-Controlled and Electromagnetically Locked egress doors—choose the right approach for each application
• Measure twice: Push button height (40-48 inches) and distance from door (within 5 feet) are frequently inspected
• Test fire integration first: Fire alarm unlock is the most common failure point during Fire Marshal testing
• Label everything: Clear "Push to Exit" signage is required and inspected
• Document fail-safe operation: Loss of power must unlock—demonstrate this during testing
• Know your occupancy: Some occupancy groups have different requirements—verify before design
• Coordinate early: Work with the fire alarm contractor on integration requirements from the start

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Permit Guides

• Texas Low Voltage Contractor License Guide
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Dallas, Texas
• Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Dallas, Texas
• Access Control Permit Requirements in Houston, Texas

Official Resources

• Dallas Access Control Requirements (PDF)
• Texas DPS Company License Types
• Dallas Fire Code - Means of Egress
• Dallas Building Codes