Burglar Alarm Permit Requirements in Delaware

Does Delaware require permits and licensing for burglar alarm installation? Here's what contractors need to know about Delaware State Police SSPSA licensing, permits, and compliance requirements in the First State.

State Licensing Requirements

Delaware regulates the alarm industry through the Delaware State Police, Professional Licensing Section. The SSPSA program covers all security alarm businesses.

Who Must Be Licensed

SSPSA licensing is required for:

• Companies that install burglar alarm systems
• Companies that service or repair alarm systems
• Companies that monitor alarm systems
• Companies that sell alarm systems with installation
• Out-of-state companies working in Delaware

License Types

License Type	Description	Duration
Alarm Agency License	Business authorization for alarm work	2 years
Alarm Employee ID Card	Individual technician authorization	5 years

Alarm Agency Requirements

To obtain an Alarm Agency License:

1. Application: Submit SSPSA Agency Application to Delaware State Police
2. Background checks: Required for all principals, officers, and managers
3. Insurance: General liability insurance required
4. Bond: May be required depending on business structure
5. Fees: Application and license fees (varies)

Alarm Employee Requirements

All employees who sell, service, repair, install, or monitor alarm systems must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have no disqualifying criminal convictions
• Be employed by a licensed Alarm Agency
• Obtain Alarm Employee ID Card
• Carry ID while working

Exemptions

• Homeowners installing in their own residence
• Employees installing only in their employer's facilities
• Retail sales without installation services
• Telephone company employees on their equipment

Alarm User Permits (Local)

Some Delaware jurisdictions require alarm user permits:

Wilmington

• Permit required: Yes, alarm registration
• Registration: Wilmington Police Department
• False alarms: Fines after multiple false alarms

New Castle County

• Permit required: Check with local municipality
• False alarms: Various ordinances by municipality

Dover

• Permit required: Alarm registration encouraged
• Registration: Dover Police Department

False Alarm Management

Help customers avoid false alarm fines:

Common Causes

1. User error (wrong codes, forgetting to disarm)
2. Motion sensors triggered by pets
3. Loose door/window contacts
4. Environmental factors
5. Low batteries

Installation Best Practices

• Use pet-immune motion sensors when appropriate
• Position sensors away from HVAC
• Ensure proper door/window alignment
• Test thoroughly before leaving
• Provide comprehensive training
• Document customer training

Delaware's Three Counties

New Castle County

Most populous county with Wilmington. Wilmington has its own alarm permit requirements. Highest commercial alarm demand. New Castle County Police and local departments handle response.

Kent County

Includes Dover, the state capital. Moderate alarm regulation. State government buildings have specific requirements. Dover Police handles most alarm response.

Sussex County

Largest county by area, coastal tourism focus. Growing residential alarm market in beach communities. Delaware State Police handles some rural areas. Seasonal population affects alarm demand.

Commercial vs Residential

Residential Burglar Alarms

• SSPSA company license required for contractors
• Employee ID Card required for technicians
• Local alarm permit may be required (varies by municipality)
• Homeowner can install their own system
• Insurance may require UL listing for discounts

Commercial Burglar Alarms

• SSPSA company license required
• Local permits may be required
• Insurance underwriters may specify requirements
• UL certification often required for financial institutions
• Integration with fire alarm and access control common

SSPSA Application Process

Agency License Steps

1. Download application: From Delaware State Police website
2. Complete forms: Agency application and required supplements
3. Background checks: Submit fingerprints for all principals
4. Insurance documentation: Provide certificate of insurance
5. Submit application: Mail to DSP Professional Licensing
6. Pay fees: Application fee required
7. Wait for approval: Processing time varies

Employee ID Card Steps

1. Employment verification: Must be employed by licensed agency
2. Complete application: Employee ID Card application
3. Background check: Criminal history review
4. Submit to DSP: Through employing agency
5. Receive ID Card: Mailed to provided address

Installation Requirements

Follow industry standards:

• NFPA 731: Installation of Electronic Premises Security Systems
• UL 681: Installation and Classification of Burglar Alarm Systems
• NEC Article 725: Class 2 and Class 3 circuits

Related Permits You May Need

• Fire Alarm Permits in Delaware
• Access Control Permits in Delaware
• Security Camera Permits in Delaware
• Intercom Permits in Delaware

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to install alarm systems in Delaware?

Yes. Delaware requires an Alarm Agency License from Delaware State Police SSPSA for all companies that install, service, or monitor alarm systems. All employees must have Alarm Employee ID Cards.

How long does it take to get licensed?

Processing time varies but typically takes 2-4 weeks for complete applications. Background checks may add time.

Can I install my own alarm system in Delaware?

Yes. Homeowners can install alarm systems in their own residence without licensing. However, professional monitoring companies must be SSPSA-licensed.

Do I need different licenses for each county?

No. The SSPSA license is statewide. However, some municipalities (like Wilmington) may have additional local requirements.

Find Alarm Projects in Delaware

Looking for burglar alarm installation opportunities in Delaware? LVN Signal tracks construction permits and bids across Delaware, alerting you to projects the moment they're filed.

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Last updated: February 2026. Requirements may change. Always verify with Delaware State Police SSPSA and local police departments before beginning work.