Security Camera Permit Requirements in Fayette County, Kentucky

Installing security cameras in Fayette County means working with the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG)—the merged city-county government that administers all building codes and permits across the jurisdiction. Whether you're installing a residential doorbell camera or a comprehensive commercial surveillance system, understanding local requirements keeps your projects compliant.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for cameras alone. Standalone security camera installations typically don't require permits in Fayette County. However, permits may be required when camera work involves electrical modifications, structural mounting, or is part of a larger construction project.

When Are Security Camera Permits Required?

LFUCG requires permits when security camera work involves:

• New electrical circuits for camera power
• Structural modifications for pole or wall mounts
• Trenching for underground conduit runs
• Work included in broader construction permits
• Installations on historic properties in designated districts

Work that typically does NOT require permits:

• IP cameras using existing network infrastructure
• PoE cameras on existing data drops
• Wireless camera systems
• Surface-mounted cameras with standard brackets
• Camera software and NVR configuration

What About Alarm System Registration?

Fayette County uses the CryWolf alarm management system for monitored alarm permits:

• Alarm Business License: $15 annually for alarm companies
• Alarm User Permit: $15 annually for monitored systems
• False Alarm Fees: Progressive fines for excessive false dispatches

Note: Standalone video surveillance without police dispatch integration typically doesn't require alarm registration. Only systems that trigger police response need permits.

What Licenses Do You Need in Kentucky?

Kentucky has favorable licensing for security camera contractors:

• No State Electrical License Required: Per KRS § 227A.030, low-voltage work under 50 volts is exempt from electrical licensing
• LFUCG Occupational License: All businesses operating in Fayette County need a valid occupational license from LFUCG
• Insurance: General liability recommended for commercial work

For complete licensing details, see our Kentucky Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

How Do You Apply for Permits When Required?

When your project requires permits, apply through LFUCG:

1. Access Portal: Visit LFUCG Permits Portal
2. Determine Permit Type: Electrical, low-voltage, or construction permit based on scope
3. Submit Application: Complete online application with project details
4. Provide Documentation:
   • Site plan showing camera locations
   • Electrical load calculations (if new circuits)
   • Mounting details for structural attachments
5. Pay Fees and Schedule Inspections

Contact Information

LFUCG Division of Building Inspection
101 E. Vine Street, Suite 700
Lexington, KY 40507
Phone: (859) 258-3770

What Are Typical Permit Fees?

Permit Type	Fee Range
Low-Voltage Permit	$50 - $100
Electrical Permit	$75 - $150
Alarm Business License	$15/year
Alarm User Permit	$15/year

How Long Does the Process Take?

Scenario	Timeline
No Permit Required	Start immediately
Simple Low-Voltage Permit	1-3 business days
Electrical Permit	3-5 business days
Historic District Review	2-4 weeks additional

Residential vs Commercial Requirements

Residential Security Cameras

Home camera installations in Fayette County are straightforward:

• No permits for most installations
• Use existing electrical outlets or PoE
• Consider neighbor privacy when positioning
• HOA rules may apply in some neighborhoods

Commercial Security Cameras

Commercial projects have additional considerations:

• Coordinate with property management
• May require electrical permits for dedicated circuits
• Consider integration with access control and fire systems
• Data retention and privacy policy compliance
• Insurance documentation often required

Historic District Considerations

Fayette County has several historic districts where exterior modifications require additional review:

• Downtown Lexington Historic District
• Ashland Park Historic District
• Gratz Park Historic District

For properties in historic districts, exterior camera installations may need Board of Architectural Review approval. Contact LFUCG Planning for guidance.

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Check Historic Status First: Verify property isn't in a historic district before quoting exterior work
• CryWolf Registration: If the system will dispatch police, register through CryWolf to avoid client fines
• PoE Simplifies Permits: Using PoE cameras avoids electrical permit requirements in most cases
• Document Camera Locations: Provide clients with as-built drawings showing all camera positions
• Plan for Lexington Weather: Use outdoor-rated equipment—Kentucky gets hot summers and cold winters

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Fayette County

• Fire Alarm Permits in Fayette County
• Access Control Permits in Fayette County
• Structured Cabling Permits in Fayette County

Additional Resources

• LFUCG Permits Portal
• Division of Building Inspection
• Fayette County CryWolf Alarm Registration