Access Control Permit Requirements in Fort Collins, Colorado

Quick Answer: Fort Collins typically does not require permits specifically for low voltage access control installations under 50 volts. The city exempts "entertainment, data, and communication systems" under 50V from contractor licensing requirements. However, permits may be required when work involves fire-rated door modifications, fire alarm integration, or electrical connections over 50V. Contact Fort Collins Building Services at (970) 416-2740 to verify requirements for your specific project.

When Are Access Control Permits Required?

Access control permit requirements in Fort Collins vary based on project scope:

Permits May Be Required When:

• Work modifies fire-rated doors or assemblies
• System integrates with fire alarm systems
• Installation requires new walls, doors, or frames
• Electrical connections over 50V
• Delayed egress or controlled egress affecting means of egress

Permits Typically NOT Required For:

• Standalone low voltage card reader installations (under 50V)
• Wireless access control systems
• Simple electric strike or mag lock installations
• Keypad or intercom installations
• Entertainment, data, and communication systems under 50V

Fort Collins Low Voltage Exemption

Fort Collins specifically exempts certain low voltage work from contractor licensing requirements:

"Entertainment, data, and communication systems within any building including related wiring supplying not more than fifty (50) volts and which does not require a state electrical license" are exempt.

Most access control systems operate under 50V and qualify for this exemption.

Work Covered by Access Control Systems

Access control system work typically includes:

• Delayed egress systems
• Telephone entry systems
• Electric door strikes
• Electromagnetic locking hardware (mag locks)
• Electrified locksets
• Electrically operated panic hardware
• Card readers and credential systems
• Controllers and head-end equipment
• Power supplies not hardwired to building electrical
• Biometric access devices

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Work Type	License Required	Notes
Low voltage access control (under 50V)	Exempt	Per Fort Collins exemption
Electrical work (over 50V)	State Electrical License	DORA State Electrical Board
Fire alarm integration	Fire Alarm Contractor	PFA requirements apply
New walls/doors/frames	Building Contractor (Class A, B, or D)	Separate construction permit

Fire-Rated Door Requirements

When access control is installed on fire-rated doors:

• Modifications must be performed by an approved fabricator
• Shop must be approved by the listing and labeling agency
• Documentation of modifications must be provided
• Fire rating of the assembly must be maintained
• Original signature and date required on documentation

Fire Alarm Integration

If access control systems connect to fire alarm systems:

• Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) requirements apply
• Fire alarm contractor licensing required
• Separate fire alarm permit may be needed
• Systems must release on fire alarm activation

Documentation Requirements

When permits are required, plans should include:

• All doors with mechanical free egress identified
• Location of all equipment (readers, controllers, power supplies)
• Emergency lighting and exit sign locations
• Path of egress travel to exits
• Door and hardware schedule
• Sequence of operations narrative
• System diagram with interconnections

Alarm Registration

If the access control system includes burglar alarm features:

• Alarm permit required for monitored systems
• Register with Larimer County False Alarm Reduction Program
• Registration available online or by mail

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Access Control

• No permit typically required for low voltage systems
• Smart locks and keypad systems generally exempt
• Alarm registration required if connected to monitoring
• Must comply with HOA rules if applicable

Commercial Access Control

• Most low voltage work exempt under 50V rule
• Egress compliance per building code
• ADA accessibility requirements apply
• Fire alarm integration requires additional permits
• Fire-rated door modifications require documentation

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Leverage the 50V exemption: Most access control work qualifies—saves time and complexity
• Verify fire-rated doors: Document any modifications with approved fabricator certification
• Coordinate with PFA: If integrating with fire alarm, contact Poudre Fire Authority early
• Register alarms: If system has burglar alarm features, register with Larimer County
• Document egress: Even without permits, document that egress is maintained

Code Compliance

Access control installations must comply with:

• Fort Collins Municipal Code Chapter 5: Buildings and Building Regulations
• 2021 International Fire Code: Enforced by PFA
• NFPA 101: Life Safety Code for egress requirements
• ADA: Accessibility requirements for doors

Contact Information

Fort Collins Building Services
Phone: (970) 416-2740
Email: buildingservices@fcgov.com
Website: fcgov.com/building

Poudre Fire Authority
Phone: (970) 416-2891
Website: poudre-fire.org

Larimer County False Alarm Reduction Program
Website: fcgov.com/building/alarm

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Related Guides

• Colorado Low Voltage Contractor Licensing Guide
• Fort Collins Security Camera Permit Requirements
• Fort Collins Fire Alarm Permit Requirements