Security Camera Permit Requirements in Forsyth County, North Carolina

Quick Answer: Forsyth County generally does not require permits for standard security camera installations that operate on low voltage and do not involve structural modifications. Permits and inspections are handled jointly through the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Inspections Division. All professional installers must hold proper North Carolina licensing.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras in Forsyth County?

Forsyth County operates a joint inspections department with the City of Winston-Salem. The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Inspections Division handles permits for electrical work throughout the county.

Permits Typically Required

• New electrical circuits to power camera systems
• Installations requiring conduit or pathway construction
• Penetrations through fire-rated walls or assemblies
• Commercial projects as part of larger tenant improvements
• Pole-mounted cameras requiring electrical service
• Systems integrated with building fire alarm or access control

Typically Exempt from Permits

• Wireless security cameras using existing power outlets
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) cameras using existing network infrastructure
• Battery-powered or solar-powered surveillance cameras
• Replacing existing cameras with similar equipment
• Residential DIY installations without new electrical work

North Carolina Licensing Requirements

North Carolina requires proper licensing for security camera installation contractors through multiple agencies:

NC Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors (NCBEEC)

The NCBEEC issues licenses for low-voltage electrical work:

• SP-LV (Limited): Low-voltage systems including CCTV, video surveillance, and security systems
• SP-FA/LV: Combined fire alarm and low-voltage classification
• Unlimited License: Full electrical license includes low-voltage work

NC Alarm Systems Licensing Board

The NC DPS Alarm Systems Licensing Board regulates alarm and surveillance businesses:

• Company business license required for alarm systems businesses in NC
• Individual agents must have 2+ years experience or complete Certified Alarm Technician Level I course
• Criminal background check required for past 60 months

For comprehensive licensing information, see our North Carolina Low Voltage License Guide.

Forsyth County Permit Application Process

Step 1: Verify Requirements

Contact the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Inspections Division to confirm if your specific project requires permits. Electrical work generally requires permits and must be performed by licensed contractors.

Step 2: Contractor Requirements

• Work must be performed by appropriately licensed individuals
• Licensed contractors may post a $2,500+ performance bond for account billing
• Accounts not paid within 30 days incur 2% late fee

Step 3: Submit Application

Apply through Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Inspections Division:

• Website: Winston-Salem Planning and Development Services
• Fire Prevention Office: 336-703-2550 (for fire alarm integration questions)

Step 4: Inspection

Inspections verify:

• Proper electrical connections and grounding
• Code-compliant conduit and cable installation
• Fire-stopping at rated assembly penetrations
• Equipment installation per manufacturer specifications

Fees and Timeline

Permit Type	Estimated Fee	Timeline
Trade Permit (electrical)	$75 - $150	1-3 business days
Commercial Electrical Permit	Varies by scope	3-5 business days
Plan Review (if required)	Based on project value	5-10 business days
Inspection	Included in permit	Next business day

Note: Contact Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Inspections for current fee schedules.

North Carolina Security Camera Laws

Beyond permits and licensing, installers and property owners must understand NC surveillance laws:

Video Recording

• Security cameras are legal in public areas and on your own property
• Recording in areas with reasonable expectation of privacy (bathrooms, changing rooms) is prohibited under NCGS §14-202
• Violating privacy laws is a Class I felony with up to 24 months imprisonment

Audio Recording

• North Carolina is a one-party consent state (NCGS §15A-287)
• At least one party to a conversation must consent to audio recording
• Surveillance cameras recording audio where no party consents may violate the law
• Pro tip: Disable audio recording on commercial surveillance systems to ensure compliance

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

Homeowners in Forsyth County may perform their own security camera installation if:

• They own the property
• They will personally occupy the structure
• Work doesn't require new electrical circuits

Commercial Installations

Commercial security camera projects require:

• Licensed contractor with appropriate NCBEEC credentials
• Alarm Systems Licensing Board company license for monitoring integration
• Permits for any electrical or structural modifications
• Compliance with building and fire codes

Pro Tips for Forsyth County Projects

• Joint jurisdiction: Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Inspections handles all permits jointly
• Fire Prevention Office: Contact 336-703-2550 for fire alarm integration questions
• Verify contractor licenses: Use NCBEEC License Lookup before hiring
• Disable audio recording: Avoid one-party consent issues on commercial systems
• Use PoE cameras: Power over Ethernet often eliminates need for electrical permits
• Consider signage: "Video Surveillance in Use" signs provide legal protection

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Guides

• North Carolina Low Voltage License Requirements
• Winston-Salem, NC Security Camera Permits
• Raleigh, NC Security Camera Permits
• Greensboro, NC Security Camera Permits