Security Camera Permit Requirements in Fayetteville, Arkansas

Installing security cameras in Fayetteville involves understanding local alarm registration requirements and state licensing. This guide covers what low voltage contractors need to know about CCTV and video surveillance installations in Northwest Arkansas's largest city.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Building permits are generally not required for standalone security camera installations in Fayetteville. Video surveillance systems are classified as low voltage work and are typically exempt from electrical permits. However, Fayetteville does require alarm registration for monitored systems, and contractors must hold state licensing from Arkansas State Police.

Does Fayetteville Require Alarm Registration?

Yes. All alarms must be permitted and registered in Fayetteville to avoid fines. This includes security systems with monitoring capabilities.

Key Registration Details

• No charge for the registration permit
• No physical permit issued - You receive a letter with your permit number
• Address-specific - The permit number is tied to you at that specific address
• PMAM Corporation manages notifications, billing, collections, and registration (effective December 2024)
• Re-registration required - Existing permits don't transfer to the new system; property owners must reapply

For registration, visit the City of Fayetteville Alarm Registration page.

When Are Building Permits Required?

While security cameras alone typically don't require building permits, certain scenarios trigger requirements:

• Electrical work - Installing new circuits or outlets for camera power
• New construction - Cameras as part of a permitted building project
• Structural modifications - Mounting equipment requiring building penetrations
• Projects over $20,000 - Any new construction exceeding this value requires a licensed contractor

Fayetteville exempts items like painting, playground equipment, and flooring from permits. For low voltage work clarification, call Building Safety at (479) 575-8238.

Do You Need a License to Install Security Cameras in Arkansas?

Yes. Arkansas State Police regulates companies that sell, install, or inspect alarm systems, fire alarm systems, or video surveillance systems. All must be licensed as an alarm system company.

For complete licensing requirements, see our Arkansas Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

License Classifications

• Class E Unrestricted - For surveillance systems integrated with fire alarm or life safety systems
• Class E Restricted - For standard commercial and residential surveillance installations
• Class E-S - Single-station license for one and two-family dwellings only

Training Requirements

CCTV installers must complete:

• Certified Alarm Technician Level I training (22-hour online course)
• Pass background check
• Qualified agents: Advanced Intrusion Systems and Fire Alarm Installation Methods (14 hours each)

License Fees

License Type	Initial Fee	Renewal Fee	Term
Class E Company License	$600	$300	2 years
Alarm Technician	$40	$40	2 years

How Do You Apply for Alarm Registration in Fayetteville?

1. Visit the Apply for a Permit page on the City of Fayetteville website
2. Complete the registration application with property and system details
3. Submit the application - No fee required
4. Receive confirmation letter with your permit number

Contact Information

Fayetteville Alarm Registration
Managed by PMAM Corporation
Website: fayetteville-ar.gov/171/Alarm-Registration

Fayetteville Building Safety Division
125 West Mountain Street
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Phone: (479) 575-8238
Hours: Monday-Friday 8 AM - 5 PM

Arkansas State Police - Regulatory Services (Licensing)
Phone: (501) 618-8600

What Are Arkansas Video Surveillance Laws?

Fayetteville follows Arkansas state privacy laws for surveillance cameras:

• Consent required in private spaces - Arkansas law requires consent when recording individuals in private areas
• No reasonable expectation of privacy outside - Courts hold there's no privacy expectation in public or exterior areas
• Exterior recording allowed - Property owners can install cameras recording exterior areas
• Don't record private areas - Cameras cannot be pointed into neighbors' homes or private spaces
• Video voyeurism prohibited - Arkansas Code § 5-16-101 prohibits secretly recording people in private places

Residential vs Commercial Security Cameras

Residential Installations

Home security camera systems in Fayetteville:

• Require alarm registration if monitored
• Don't require building permits for low voltage work
• Should comply with HOA rules if applicable
• Must respect neighbor privacy

Commercial Installations

Business security camera projects often involve:

• Multi-camera networked systems
• NVR/DVR server equipment requiring dedicated power
• Integration with access control or alarm systems
• Alarm registration required for monitored systems
• License requirements for installing contractor

Permits are valid for 180 days (6 months) as long as work is receiving inspections.

Pro Tips for Security Camera Contractors in Fayetteville

• Register all monitored systems - Help clients complete alarm registration to avoid false alarm fines
• Re-registration required - Existing permits don't transfer; verify client registration status
• 6-month permit validity - Permits become invalid if work isn't commenced or is suspended for 180 days
• Camera placement matters - Position cameras to avoid capturing neighbor properties
• PoE simplifies installs - Power over Ethernet eliminates need for separate power runs
• Document coverage areas - Provide clients with camera view maps showing monitored areas
• Code compliance - Building Safety reviews for IBC, NEC, Arkansas Fire Prevention Code compliance

Stay Ahead of Security Camera Project Activity

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

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Related Permit Guides

• Security Camera Permits in Fort Smith
• Security Camera Permits in Little Rock

Summary

Security camera installations in Fayetteville require alarm registration for monitored systems (free, managed by PMAM Corporation) but typically don't require building permits for standalone low voltage work. Contractors must hold a Class E license from Arkansas State Police. Help clients register their systems to avoid false alarm fines, follow Arkansas privacy laws for camera placement, and maintain proper state licensing for compliant commercial installations.