Access Control Permit Requirements in DeKalb County, Georgia

Quick Answer: DeKalb County requires building permits for access control installations that involve structural modifications, door hardware changes, or integration with fire alarm systems. Standalone low-voltage access control systems typically fall under Georgia state contractor licensing rather than local building permits. All installers must hold a valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license.

When Are Permits Required?

DeKalb County follows Georgia state building codes for access control installations. Permit requirements depend on the scope of work:

Permits Typically Required

• Electromagnetic locks on egress doors: Requires permit and compliance with Georgia Building Code egress requirements
• Fire alarm integration: Access control tied to fire systems needs fire alarm permit review
• Structural modifications: Door frame alterations, new door installations, or wall penetrations
• Commercial gate operators: Motorized gates with access control require permits
• ADA accessibility modifications: Automatic door operators affecting accessible routes

Permits Typically Not Required

• Standalone card reader installations without door modifications
• Keypad entry systems on existing doors
• Video intercom systems (low-voltage only)
• Replacement of existing access control components

Georgia Contractor Licensing Requirements

All access control installation work in DeKalb County requires a valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license issued by the Georgia Secretary of State. This is a state requirement that applies regardless of local permit requirements.

Applicable License Types

License Class	Designation	Access Control Coverage
Unrestricted	LVU	Full access control installation authority
Alarm	LVA	Access control when part of security system
General	LVG	Limited access control work

Important: Low voltage contractors cannot connect access control systems to building power exceeding 50 volts AC or 30 volts DC. A licensed electrical contractor is required for high-voltage connections.

For complete state licensing requirements, see our Georgia Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

DeKalb County Permit Application Process

When permits are required, DeKalb County uses an electronic permitting system called CIVICS:

Step 1: Register as a Contractor

Before applying for permits, contractors must register with DeKalb County. Bring your Georgia low voltage license, government-issued ID, and valid business license to the Building Permits office.

Step 2: Submit Plans via ePlans

DeKalb County has launched electronic plan submission through the ePlans web portal. Submit plans electronically from anywhere and track review status online.

Step 3: Plan Review

Allow up to two business days for initial application processing. Complex commercial projects may require additional review time.

Step 4: Permit Issuance and Inspections

Once approved, schedule inspections through the ePermitting system. Access control inspections typically verify:

• Proper egress door operation per building code
• Fire alarm integration functionality
• ADA compliance for accessible entrances
• Electrical connections meet code requirements

Contact Information

DeKalb County Building Permits
1300 Commerce Drive
Decatur, GA 30030
Phone: 404-371-2000
Email: 311CCC@dekalbcountyga.gov
Online Portal: epermits.dekalbcountyga.gov

Fees and Timeline

Service	Estimated Cost	Timeline
Low Voltage/Alarm Permit	$50-$150	2-5 business days
Commercial Building Permit	Based on project value	5-15 business days
Plan Review Fee	Varies by scope	Included in review time
Inspection Fee	Often included	Schedule upon request

Payment Methods: DeKalb County accepts Visa, MasterCard, checks, money orders, cashier's check, and cash. American Express and counter checks are not accepted.

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Access Control

Home access control systems in DeKalb County typically require no permit for:

• Smart locks replacing existing deadbolts
• Video doorbell installations
• Residential intercom systems
• Garage door access keypads

Permits may be required when electromagnetic locks are installed on egress doors or when work involves electrical modifications.

Commercial Access Control

Commercial projects have stricter requirements:

• Egress compliance: All access-controlled doors must allow immediate exit during emergencies
• Fire system integration: Systems must release all electromagnetic locks upon fire alarm activation
• ADA compliance: Accessible routes must meet Georgia Building Code requirements
• Emergency power: Critical access points may require backup power provisions

Building Code Updates

Important: Effective January 1, 2026, DeKalb County will adopt the 2024 ICC codes per the State of Georgia. This may affect access control requirements, particularly for egress door hardware and fire alarm integration. Contact the Building Permits office for current requirements.

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Pre-application consultation: For complex commercial projects, schedule a pre-application meeting with DeKalb County to clarify permit requirements before submitting plans
• Document everything: Keep copies of your Georgia state license, contractor registration, and permit approvals on-site during installation
• Fire marshal coordination: When installing access control on fire-rated doors, coordinate with DeKalb County Fire Marshal early in the planning process
• Electronic submission benefits: Using ePlans saves printing costs and allows you to track plan review status remotely
• Cities within DeKalb: Incorporated cities like Decatur, Dunwoody, and Brookhaven may have their own permitting requirements—verify jurisdiction before applying

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Guides

• Georgia Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
• Access Control Permit Requirements in Atlanta, Georgia
• Access Control Permit Requirements in Savannah, Georgia