Access Control Permit Requirements in El Paso County, Colorado

Quick Answer: Access control installations in El Paso County, Colorado typically do not require permits for low voltage systems operating under 50 volts. However, gate operators, electric fences, and systems requiring electrical work above 50V need permits from the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD). Work affecting county right-of-way requires separate permits from El Paso County Public Works.

When Are Permits Required?

El Paso County follows Colorado's approach to low voltage work, with PPRBD handling building-related permits.

Permits Generally NOT Required:

• Card reader and credential systems operating below 50V
• Keypad entry systems
• Magnetic door locks on low voltage
• Intercom systems with electric release
• Biometric access readers
• Standalone door controllers

Permits ARE Required:

• Motorized gate operators
• Electric fence systems
• Systems requiring new electrical circuits (120V+)
• Barrier arm systems
• Access control integrated with fire alarm systems
• Work in county right-of-way
• Structural modifications for gate installation

Permitting Authorities

Access control projects in El Paso County may involve multiple authorities:

Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (PPRBD)

• Building and electrical permits
• Gate operator installations
• Structural modifications
• Serves unincorporated El Paso County and participating municipalities

PPRBD Contact:
2880 International Circle
Colorado Springs, CO 80910
Phone: (719) 327-2880
Website: pprbd.org

El Paso County Public Works

• Right-of-way permits for gates affecting county roads
• Driveway access modifications
• Work within county easements

Public Works Contact:
Website: publicworks.elpasoco.com

El Paso County Planning and Community Development

• Access permits for development projects
• Gate setback and visibility requirements
• Commercial entrance modifications

Gate Operator Permit Process

For motorized gates requiring permits:

Step 1: Determine Requirements

• Check if property is in unincorporated county or municipality
• Verify setback and visibility requirements
• Determine if right-of-way permit needed

Step 2: Submit to PPRBD

• Complete permit application
• Provide site plan showing gate location
• Include equipment specifications
• Submit electrical load calculations if applicable

Step 3: Right-of-Way Permit (if needed)

• Apply through El Paso County Public Works online portal
• Provide proof of financial resources for restoration
• Reference El Paso County Engineering Criteria Manual Chapter 5

Step 4: Inspections

• Schedule electrical rough-in inspection
• Final inspection upon completion
• Safety device testing required

Contractor Requirements

Colorado does not have a statewide low voltage license, but contractors should:

• Business License: Required for work in El Paso County
• Electrical License: Required from PPRBD if work exceeds 50V
• Liability Insurance: Proof required for permit applications
• Workers' Compensation: Required if employing workers

For comprehensive information, see our Colorado Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

Fees and Timeline

Permit Type	Estimated Fee	Processing Time
Electrical Permit	Based on valuation	3-5 business days
Building Permit (structural)	Based on valuation	2-4 weeks
Right-of-Way Permit	Varies by scope	2-3 weeks
Low voltage only (under 50V)	No permit required	N/A

Fees subject to change. Contact PPRBD for current rates.

Residential vs. Commercial Access Control

Residential Projects

• Driveway gates: Check setback requirements
• Smart locks and keypads: No permits typically needed
• Electric fences: May require fire department notification
• HOA approval often required in subdivisions
• Rural properties: Consider wildlife and emergency access

Commercial Projects

• ADA compliance required for accessible entrances
• Fire access must be maintained for emergency vehicles
• Knox Box may be required by fire authority
• Parking facility gates may require traffic review
• Integration with fire alarm systems requires coordination

Fire and Life Safety Requirements

Access control systems must comply with fire and life safety codes:

• Emergency Release: All egress doors must release on fire alarm
• Fire Lane Access: Gates must not impede fire department access
• Knox Box: May be required for gated properties
• Emergency Vehicle Preemption: Consider for community gates
• Fail-Safe: Egress doors must fail-safe (unlocked) on power loss

Special Considerations for El Paso County

• Rural Properties: Long driveways may need solar-powered solutions
• Wildlife: Consider gate timing and animal sensors
• Weather: High winds and snow require robust equipment
• Fire Districts: Multiple fire authorities - verify jurisdiction
• Military Areas: Properties near military installations may have restrictions

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Verify Jurisdiction: Confirm if property is in county or a municipality
• Check Easements: Utility and access easements may restrict gate placement
• Plan for Maintenance: Ensure adequate access for service vehicles
• Emergency Access: Include Knox Box or emergency release for first responders
• Weather Rating: Use equipment rated for Colorado high altitude conditions
• Battery Backup: Power outages are common in rural areas

Common Access Control Systems

Popular access control technologies in El Paso County:

• Slide Gates: Popular for driveways with limited space
• Swing Gates: Traditional appearance for residential properties
• Barrier Arms: Commercial parking and community entrances
• Telephone Entry: Multi-unit residential buildings
• Card/Fob Access: Commercial and multi-tenant facilities
• Mobile Credentials: Smartphone-based entry systems

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Permit Guides

• El Paso County Security Camera Permit Requirements
• El Paso County Fire Alarm Permit Requirements
• Colorado Springs Access Control Permit Requirements
• Colorado Low Voltage Contractor License Guide

Official Resources

• Pikes Peak Regional Building Department
• El Paso County Public Works Forms
• El Paso County Right-of-Way Permits
• El Paso County Official Website