Security Camera Permit Requirements in Davis County, Utah

Installing security cameras in Davis County requires understanding both local building permit requirements and Utah state licensing rules. Davis County's Community and Economic Development Department handles permits for unincorporated areas, while individual cities like Farmington, Layton, and Bountiful have their own permitting processes.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for basic camera installations. Most security camera installations in Davis County don't require a building permit since they typically involve low-voltage wiring under 25 volts and minimal structural work. However, larger commercial installations involving electrical modifications or structural changes may require permits. Always verify with Davis County for your specific project.

What Security Camera Work Requires a Permit in Davis County?

According to Davis County Community and Economic Development, permits are required for any work on electrical systems. The following camera work may trigger permit requirements:

• Commercial surveillance systems requiring new electrical circuits
• Installations requiring structural modifications (poles, equipment enclosures)
• Camera systems integrated with access control or alarm systems requiring electrical work
• Any work involving modifications to existing electrical panels
• Projects requiring trenching or conduit installation
• Systems in fire-rated spaces requiring fire stopping

When Is a Permit NOT Required?

Most residential and small commercial camera installations are exempt:

• Low-voltage camera systems operating under 25 volts and 50 watts
• Wireless camera installations
• Battery-powered or solar-powered cameras
• Surface-mounted cameras using existing power outlets
• Replacing existing cameras with similar equipment
• Most PoE (Power over Ethernet) camera systems

When in doubt, contact Davis County Community and Economic Development at (801) 451-3279 to confirm whether your specific project requires a permit.

Do You Need a License to Install Security Cameras in Utah?

Yes for professional installers. Utah requires contractors performing security camera work to hold appropriate licensing from the Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). Requirements include:

• Low Voltage License: Required for systems operating up to 95 volts
• Age requirement: Must be at least 18 years old
• Experience: Four years of experience in the low voltage field
• Examination: Pass a written exam covering fire alarms, access control, video surveillance, security systems, and structured cabling
• Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years

For complete licensing requirements, see our Utah Low Voltage License Guide.

Utah Security Camera Privacy Laws

Before installing cameras, understand Utah's privacy requirements:

Video Recording

• No permission needed for video surveillance in public places
• Consent required for cameras in areas with a reasonable expectation of privacy
• Recording in bathrooms, bedrooms, or private spaces is strictly illegal
• Violating privacy laws is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months jail, $1,000 fine)

Audio Recording

• Utah is a one-party consent state
• You can record conversations you're a party to
• Third-party recording of private conversations without consent is illegal
• Most commercial security systems should not record audio unless actively engaged in conversation

How to Apply for a Permit in Davis County

If your project requires a permit, follow these steps:

1. Verify jurisdiction: Confirm your property is in unincorporated Davis County (cities have their own processes)
2. Submit application online: Use the Davis County online permit portal
3. Complete application: Include project details and scope of work
4. Submit required documents: Site plans, equipment specifications, and contractor license
5. Pay permit fees
6. Schedule inspections after installation is complete

Required Documentation

• Building permit application
• Site plan showing camera locations
• Equipment specifications
• Contractor license verification
• For commercial projects: Wiring diagrams and equipment cut sheets

What Are the Permit Fees in Davis County?

Permit Type	Estimated Fee
Minimum permit (single inspection)	$202
Electrical permit with plan review	$250+
Commercial permit	Varies by project scope
Re-inspection fee	$50+

Fees vary based on project scope. Contact Davis County for exact quotes.

How Long Does the Permit Process Take?

Stage	Typical Timeline
Simple permit approval	1-3 business days
Commercial plan review	5-10 business days
Inspection scheduling	1-2 business days
Final inspection	Same day if passed

Residential vs Commercial Security Camera Permits

Residential Projects

Home security camera installations are usually straightforward:

• Most residential systems are permit-exempt
• Wireless and PoE systems typically don't require permits
• Focus on privacy compliance (no cameras pointing at neighbors' private areas)
• HOA restrictions may apply in some neighborhoods

Commercial Projects

Business surveillance installations may require more consideration:

• Larger systems may trigger permit requirements
• Employee notification requirements may apply
• Integration with alarm systems adds licensing requirements
• Fire code compliance for equipment rooms
• ADA accessibility considerations for monitoring stations

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Verify jurisdiction first: Cities within Davis County have different requirements than unincorporated areas
• Document camera placement: Create a site plan even if not required for permits
• Consider privacy zones: Configure cameras to exclude neighboring properties
• Label all equipment: Makes inspections faster and troubleshooting easier
• Keep records: Maintain installation documentation for warranty and service
• Audio considerations: Default to video-only unless there's a specific legal need for audio

Davis County Contact Information

• Department: Community and Economic Development
• Address: 61 S Main Street, Room 304, Farmington, UT 84025
• Phone: (801) 451-3279
• Website: daviscountyutah.gov/ced/planning/building-permits
• Online Payments: Online Permit Payment

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Davis County before they reach bid boards?

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