Structured Cabling Permit Requirements in Dallas, Texas

Quick Answer: Dallas requires low voltage contractor registration for structured cabling installations. While many low voltage installations under 50 volts may be exempt from electrical permits, Dallas has adopted local amendments to the NEC that may require permits for certain commercial installations. Contractors should register with the city and verify requirements for each project.

Dallas Structured Cabling Regulations

Unlike Houston, which has very broad exemptions, Dallas has adopted specific requirements for low voltage work through Chapter 56 of the Dallas City Code (Dallas Electrical Code) with local amendments. Ordinance No. 32199 became effective June 13, 2022, updating these requirements.

Contractor Registration Required

Dallas requires low voltage contractor registration for installations. This registration is separate from any state-level licensing requirements and must be maintained with the City of Dallas.

Potential Permit Requirements

Depending on project scope, you may need:

• Commercial electrical conduit permits: Required for conduit installations
• Right-of-way permits: When work crosses public property or sidewalks
• Building permits: For structural modifications (pathways, equipment rooms)
• Electrical permits: When connecting to power sources

State-Level Exemptions (TDLR)

Texas Occupations Code Chapter 1305, specifically Section 1305.003(a)(12), provides exemptions for certain low voltage work at the state level.

TDLR-Exempt Work

At the state level, the following does not require an electrical license:

• Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 remote control, signaling, or power-limited circuits
• Fire alarm circuits
• Optical fiber cables
• Communications circuits
• Raceways for the above systems

Municipal Override Authority

However, municipalities retain authority to impose additional requirements. Dallas has exercised this authority by requiring contractor registration and potentially permits for certain low voltage work.

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

NEC Code Compliance

All structured cabling installations in Dallas must comply with the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) as adopted with local amendments.

Cable Classifications

NEC Article 725 defines circuit classifications:

• Class 1: Control circuits, typically above 30 volts (more restrictive requirements)
• Class 2: Lower voltage, power-limited circuits (most data cabling)
• Class 3: Similar to Class 2 with different power limitations

Most structured cabling falls under Class 2 or Class 3, which have fewer restrictions.

Plenum Cable Requirements

Cables installed in plenum (air handling) spaces must be plenum-rated:

• CMP: Communications Plenum - required in air handling spaces
• CMR: Communications Riser - for vertical runs between floors
• CM: Communications - general purpose areas

Plenum-rated cables restrict flame propagation and reduce smoke and toxic fumes in fire events.

Separation Requirements

NEC requires proper separation between low-voltage and high-voltage cabling to prevent interference and safety hazards.

Firestopping

When cabling passes through fire-rated floors and walls, proper firestopping is required to maintain fire barrier integrity.

Grounding

Cabling infrastructure must be properly grounded per NEC requirements.

Industry Standards

Professional installations should comply with recognized industry standards:

Standard	Coverage
ANSI/TIA-568	Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard
TIA-569	Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces
TIA-606	Administration Standard for Telecommunications Infrastructure
TIA-607	Grounding and Bonding Requirements
BICSI	Building Industry Consulting Service International standards

Application Process

Step 1: Register as a Contractor

Complete low voltage contractor registration with the City of Dallas before performing work.

Step 2: Determine Permit Requirements

Contact Dallas Development Services to determine if your specific project requires permits. Factors include:

• Project scope and complexity
• Location (crossing right-of-way)
• Conduit installation requirements
• Connection to power sources

Step 3: Submit Applications

If permits are required:

• Submit via DallasNow online portal
• Include detailed plans and wiring diagrams
• Specify low voltage/telecommunications work
• Pay applicable fees (typically less than 1% of project cost)

Step 4: Installation

Complete installation per approved plans and applicable codes.

Step 5: Inspection (if required)

Schedule inspection if permit was required. Note that local building inspectors may not be familiar with fiber-optic and telecommunications cabling issues—be prepared to explain low voltage work.

Underground Conduit Requirements

For underground installations in Dallas:

• PVC conduit: Minimum 18 inches burial depth
• Rigid metal conduit: Minimum 24 inches burial depth
• Right-of-way permits required when crossing public property

Best Practices

Before Starting Work

• Approach the city first: Contact Development Services before starting work
• Never start without verification: Getting caught on-site without proper registration/permits creates problems
• Clarify scope: Indicate work is strictly low voltage/telecommunications if permit forms ask for electrician information

Documentation

Maintain professional documentation even when permits are not required:

• As-built drawings showing cable pathways
• Cable labeling schedules
• Test results and certification reports
• Warranty documentation

Testing and Certification

Professional contractors should:

• Test every cable drop using industry-standard equipment (Fluke testers)
• Verify compliance with TIA/EIA performance specifications
• Provide full documentation and certification reports
• Issue manufacturer warranties where applicable

Contact Information

Dallas Development Services
Building Inspection
Phone: (214) 948-4480

DallasNow Permitting Portal
Online Permit Portal

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)
Phone: 512-463-6599
Toll-Free: 1-800-803-9202

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Register first: Complete Dallas contractor registration before bidding projects
• Call ahead: Always verify requirements with Development Services for new project types
• Document plenum compliance: Verify cable ratings match the space type
• Know your inspectors: Be prepared to explain low voltage vs. electrical work
• Bundle related permits: Coordinate with other trades (electrical, fire alarm) to streamline approvals
• Keep current: Dallas updates codes periodically—stay informed on changes
• Professional documentation: Test reports differentiate you from handyman competitors

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when commercial construction projects hit permits in Dallas before they reach bid boards?

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides

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

Official Resources

• Dallas Electrical Code Chapter 56
• TDLR Electrician Exemptions
• Dallas Building Codes on UpCodes
• DallasNow Permit Portal