Security Camera Permit Requirements in Delaware County, Pennsylvania

Installing security cameras in Delaware County, Pennsylvania requires understanding both local permit requirements and Pennsylvania's strict surveillance laws. This guide covers what contractors and property owners need to know.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no, for camera installation alone. Most Delaware County municipalities do not require permits for low-voltage security camera wiring in residential applications. However, commercial installations and projects requiring electrical work may need permits depending on your specific township.

When Permits Are Required

Security camera permits may be required when:

• Installing new electrical circuits for camera equipment
• Mounting cameras on structures requiring modifications
• Commercial installations with extensive wiring
• Projects penetrating fire-rated assemblies
• Outdoor pole-mounted camera installations
• Integration with fire alarm or access control systems

When Permits Are NOT Required

Most municipalities exempt:

• Low-voltage communications wiring (residential)
• Wireless camera installations
• Battery-powered security cameras
• Like-for-like camera replacements
• Surface-mounted cameras with existing power

Note: Delaware County comprises many townships with varying requirements. Always verify with your local building department.

Pennsylvania Wiretap Law - Critical Compliance

Pennsylvania is a two-party consent state with strict surveillance laws. The Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance Control Act (WESCA) governs all surveillance in the state.

Video Recording

• Video-only recording is generally permitted on your own property
• Cameras cannot point into areas with reasonable privacy expectations
• Cannot record in bathrooms, bedrooms, or changing areas
• Recording in private areas violates 18 Pa.C.S. § 7507.1

Audio Recording

• All parties must consent to audio recording
• Recording audio without consent is a criminal offense
• Pennsylvania has some of the strictest audio surveillance laws in the US
• Recommendation: Disable audio recording on all cameras or post clear notices

Workplace Cameras

• Explicitly notify employees about camera placement
• Install only in public areas without privacy expectations
• Avoid audio recording in workplace settings
• Post visible surveillance notices

Pennsylvania Contractor Requirements

Pennsylvania does not have a statewide low-voltage contractor license. However:

• Home Improvement Registration: Required for residential work over $500 through the PA Attorney General's Office
• Municipal Registration: Some Delaware County townships require local contractor registration
• Commercial Electrical License: Best practice for ensuring quality work
• Insurance: Proof of liability insurance typically required

For detailed statewide requirements, see our Pennsylvania Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

Delaware County Municipal Permit Offices

Delaware County uses a decentralized permitting system. Contact your project's municipality:

Municipality	Contact	Notes
Middletown Township	(610) 565-2700	United Inspection Agency reviews
Upper Darby Township	(610) 734-7600	Building & Code department
Haverford Township	(610) 446-1000	Code enforcement office
Radnor Township	(610) 688-5600	Building permits department
Springfield Township	(610) 544-1300	Code enforcement
Marple Township	(610) 356-7440	Building department

Application Process

When permits are required:

1. Identify your municipality: Determine which township or borough
2. Contact building department: Verify requirements for your project scope
3. Prepare documentation: Site plans, camera locations, wiring diagrams
4. Submit application: Include contractor credentials and insurance
5. Pay fees: Varies by municipality
6. Schedule inspection: Required for permitted work

Fees and Timeline

Item	Typical Range
Building Permit (if required)	$50-$150
Electrical Permit	$75-$175
Plan Review (commercial)	$100-$250
Processing Time	3-10 business days

Residential vs. Commercial Projects

Residential Security Cameras

• Typically exempt from permits for low-voltage wiring
• Must comply with PA wiretap law (no audio without consent)
• Cannot surveil neighbor's private property
• Contractor must be PA Home Improvement registered

Commercial Security Cameras

• May require building permits depending on scope
• Employee notification required for workplace cameras
• Signage posting recommended
• Third-party inspections may be required
• Integration with other systems may trigger additional permits

Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code

Delaware County municipalities follow the PA UCC (Act 45 of 1999). Key points:

• Municipalities responsible for reviewing and inspecting electrical construction
• Third-party inspection agencies often used (e.g., United Inspection Agency)
• Permit fees include inspection costs in some townships
• Code compliance required for all permitted work

Pro Tips from Delaware County Contractors

• Disable audio by default: Pennsylvania's two-party consent law makes audio recording risky
• Post signage: "Video Surveillance in Use" signs provide legal protection
• Document camera angles: Show that cameras don't capture private areas
• Know your township: Requirements vary across Delaware County's municipalities
• Use commercially licensed contractors: Ensures quality and code compliance
• Plan for power: PoE systems reduce electrical permit requirements

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Pennsylvania and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.

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Related Permit Guides

• Philadelphia Security Camera Permits
• Montgomery County Security Camera Permits
• Bucks County Security Camera Permits
• Chester County Security Camera Permits