Security Camera Permit Requirements in Eugene, Oregon

Installing security cameras in Eugene requires understanding Oregon's contractor licensing requirements and the city's electrical permit process. Whether you're installing surveillance systems at a university campus facility or a local business, this guide covers everything contractors need to know about permits and compliance in Oregon's second-largest city.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally yes for new installations. Eugene requires electrical permits for installing or altering low-voltage systems including security cameras and alarms. The good news is that trade permits in Eugene require no plan review and can be processed quickly through the city's eBuild online system. Simple camera replacements using existing wiring may be exempt.

What Counts as a Security Camera Installation?

Security camera systems that typically require permits include:

• IP camera networks with PoE switches
• Analog CCTV systems with DVR recording
• Wireless camera systems with wired power
• Video intercom and doorbell cameras (commercial)
• License plate recognition (LPR) systems
• Integration with access control or alarm systems

When Are Permits Required in Eugene?

The City of Eugene Building Department requires electrical permits when you install or alter low-voltage systems. This includes security cameras, alarms, and similar equipment.

Permit Required

• New security camera system installations
• Adding cameras to existing systems with new wiring
• Installing network infrastructure for IP cameras
• Commercial surveillance projects
• Systems integrated with fire alarm or access control

Potentially Exempt

• Replacing cameras on existing wiring
• Battery-powered wireless cameras
• Plug-in residential doorbell cameras
• Minor repairs and maintenance

Contact the Eugene Permit Information Center at (541) 682-5086 to confirm requirements for your specific project.

Oregon Contractor Licensing Requirements

Before performing any permitted work in Eugene, contractors must hold proper Oregon state credentials.

Required Licenses

• CCB License - Registration with Oregon Construction Contractors Board
• Limited Energy (LE) Endorsement - Required for low-voltage installations
• Electrical License - Supervising electrician license on file with Oregon BCD
• Insurance - Liability and workers' compensation as required

For complete licensing information, see our Oregon Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

How to Apply for Security Camera Permits in Eugene

Step 1: Gather Information

Before applying, have ready:

• Property address and owner information
• Scope of work description
• CCB license number
• Electrical license number
• Supervising electrician's license number

Step 2: Submit Online via eBuild

Eugene offers convenient online permitting through their eBuild system. Trade permits (electrical, mechanical, plumbing) require no plan review and process quickly.

City of Eugene Planning and Development
99 W. 10th Avenue
Eugene, OR 97401
Phone: (541) 682-5086
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm
Drop-in: Monday-Friday, 12pm-4pm
Online: eugene-or.gov/permits

Step 3: Application Review

Intake staff review applications within 3 business days. Once approved, you'll receive notice to pay fees online. The permit issues automatically after payment.

Step 4: Schedule Inspections

After installation, schedule required inspections through eBuild. From your project list, you can schedule inspections without logging into a separate system.

What Are the Fees for Security Camera Permits?

Permit Type	Fee Range	Notes
Electrical Permit (Low Voltage)	$85-$150	Based on number of circuits/devices
Plan Review	Not required	Trade permits exempt from plan review
Re-inspection Fee	$75	Per failed inspection

Contact Eugene Building Department for current fee schedules.

How Long Does the Permit Process Take?

Phase	Timeline
Online application	Same day
Application review	Within 3 business days
Payment and issuance	Immediate after payment
Inspection scheduling	24-48 hours notice

Important: Permits expire if work isn't started within 180 days or is suspended for 180 days.

Residential vs Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

Home security camera installations in Eugene:

• Electrical permit typically required for hardwired systems
• Plug-in and battery cameras generally exempt
• Homeowners can pull permits for their own property
• Ring/Nest doorbell cameras usually exempt

Commercial Installations

Business and institutional projects require:

• Electrical permits for all new installations
• Licensed contractor must perform work
• Integration with existing systems may require additional review
• University of Oregon projects have additional institutional requirements

Special Considerations for Eugene

University of Oregon Campus

Eugene is home to the University of Oregon. Security camera work on university property may require:

• Coordination with UO Facilities Services
• Compliance with university security standards
• Background checks for contractor personnel
• Additional institutional permitting

Downtown and Historic Areas

Camera installations in Eugene's downtown or historic districts should consider:

• Exterior mounting may require design review
• Historic building modifications need additional approval
• Downtown business district has specific signage guidelines

Oregon Privacy Laws

Oregon law affects camera placement:

• Recording in private areas without consent is prohibited
• Audio recording requires all-party consent in Oregon
• Public areas can generally be recorded without permission
• Workplace monitoring has specific notification requirements

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Use eBuild - Eugene's online system is efficient and tracks everything in one place
• No plan review needed - Trade permits process faster than building permits
• Keep licenses current - Eugene verifies CCB and electrical licenses
• 180-day rule - Start work promptly to avoid permit expiration
• Schedule early - Plan inspection scheduling into your project timeline
• Document everything - Photos help resolve any inspection questions

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Additional Resources

• City of Eugene Permits
• Eugene Building Permit Services
• Oregon Construction Contractors Board
• Oregon Low Voltage License Requirements