Structured Cabling Permit Requirements in DeKalb County, Georgia

Quick Answer: Most standalone structured cabling installations in DeKalb County do not require a separate building permit when performed by a licensed Georgia Low Voltage Contractor. However, permits may be required for projects involving structural modifications, new construction, or work valued over $3,000 that affects building systems. All installers must hold a valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license (LVG, LVT, or LVU).

When Are Permits Required?

DeKalb County follows Georgia state building codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 800 for communications circuits. Permit requirements depend on the scope of your structured cabling project:

Permits Typically Required

• New commercial construction: Data cabling as part of new building projects requires permits
• Major renovations: Projects over $3,000 involving structural changes or egress modifications
• Pathway installations: New conduit runs, cable trays, or penetrations through fire-rated assemblies
• Telecommunications rooms: Building new MDF/IDF rooms or significant electrical work
• Riser installations: Vertical cable runs through multiple floors

Permits Typically Not Required

• Installing network drops in existing pathways
• Cable pulling through existing conduit or cable trays
• Patch panel and rack installations in existing telecom rooms
• Adding data outlets to existing wall boxes
• Replacing or upgrading existing cabling infrastructure

Georgia Contractor Licensing Requirements

All structured cabling work in DeKalb County requires a valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license issued by the Georgia Secretary of State. This applies regardless of whether local permits are required.

Applicable License Types for Structured Cabling

License Class	Designation	Structured Cabling Scope
Unrestricted	LVU	All structured cabling work with no limitations
Telecommunications	LVT	Voice, data, and telecommunications cabling systems
General	LVG	Distribution wiring including LAN systems and data cabling

Key Distinction: The LVG license specifically covers "distribution wiring for alarm systems and telecommunications systems including local area network systems," making it applicable to most structured cabling projects.

Voltage Limitation: Low voltage contractors cannot perform work on systems exceeding 50 volts AC or 30 volts DC. A licensed electrical contractor is required for high-voltage connections and dedicated circuits.

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

DeKalb County Permit Application Process

When permits are required for structured cabling projects, DeKalb County uses the CIVICS electronic permitting system:

Step 1: Contractor Registration

Before applying for permits, contractors must register with DeKalb County. Requirements include:

• Valid Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license
• Government-issued identification
• Current business license

Step 2: Submit Plans via ePlans

DeKalb County requires electronic plan submission through the ePlans portal. For commercial projects, submit three sets of plans showing:

• Cable pathway layouts and riser diagrams
• Telecommunications room locations
• Fire stopping details for penetrations
• Equipment specifications

Step 3: Plan Review

Allow 2-5 business days for low voltage permit review. Complex commercial projects may require additional review time for coordination with other trades.

Step 4: Inspections

Schedule inspections through the ePermitting system. Structured cabling inspections typically verify:

• NEC Article 800 compliance for communications circuits
• Proper fire stopping at penetrations
• Cable separation from power conductors
• Grounding and bonding per NEC 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 Permit	$50-$150	2-5 business days
Commercial Building Permit	Based on project value	5-15 business days
Plan Review	Included in permit fee	Part of review time
Inspection	Often included	Schedule as needed

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

NEC Article 800 Compliance

Georgia currently enforces the 2020 NEC (NFPA 70). Key Article 800 requirements for structured cabling in DeKalb County include:

• Cable ratings: Use CM, CMR (riser), or CMP (plenum) rated cables as appropriate for installation location
• Separation: Maintain required separation from power conductors per NEC 800.133
• Grounding: Bond cable shields and equipment per NEC 800.100
• Fire stopping: Seal all penetrations through fire-rated assemblies
• Listing requirements: Use listed cables and connecting hardware

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Structured Cabling

Home networking and data cabling in DeKalb County typically requires no permit for:

• Running Cat5e/Cat6 cables through existing walls
• Installing network outlets and patch panels
• Home theater and distributed audio wiring
• Smart home device networking

Permits may be required when work involves opening walls, attic access in new construction, or modifications to the electrical system.

Commercial Structured Cabling

Commercial projects have additional requirements:

• Plan submission: Required for new construction and major renovations
• Fire code compliance: Plenum-rated cable in air handling spaces
• ADA considerations: Accessible outlet heights and pathway clearances
• Coordination: May require sign-off from multiple departments

Building Code Updates

Important: Effective January 1, 2026, DeKalb County will adopt the 2024 ICC codes per the State of Georgia. This may affect structured cabling requirements, particularly for fire stopping and cable pathway installations. Contact the Building Permits office for current requirements.

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Verify jurisdiction: Incorporated cities within DeKalb County (Decatur, Dunwoody, Brookhaven, Chamblee) may have their own permitting requirements
• Document pathways: Photograph existing conditions before work begins, especially in older buildings where as-builts may not exist
• Fire marshal coordination: For penetrations through fire-rated assemblies, coordinate with DeKalb County Fire Marshal for approved firestop methods
• Cable certification: While not a permit requirement, cable testing and certification documentation adds value for commercial clients
• Plan ahead for fiber: If fiber optic installation is planned, ensure your Georgia license covers the work and factor in additional inspection requirements

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when structured cabling 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
• Structured Cabling Permit Requirements in Atlanta, Georgia
• Structured Cabling Permit Requirements in Macon, Georgia