Access Control Permit Requirements in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Installing access control systems in Fort Lauderdale requires understanding both city permit requirements and Florida state contractor licensing. This guide covers everything low voltage contractors need to know about permits for card readers, biometric systems, and electronic door hardware in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Yes, in most cases. Broward County requires permits for low-voltage electrical work including security systems. Fort Lauderdale processes permits through its LauderBuild portal for all construction work within city limits.

When Permits Are Required

• Commercial access control systems - Card readers, biometric systems, electric strikes, mag locks
• Systems integrated with fire alarm - Door release mechanisms tied to fire life safety
• New construction projects - All access control work in new buildings
• Tenant improvements - Adding access control to existing commercial spaces
• Door hardware modifications - Electric strikes, mag locks, door position switches

When Permits May Not Be Required

• Standalone wireless systems - Battery-powered access control not hardwired to building electrical
• Minor residential installations - Some residential systems under certain thresholds
• Like-for-like replacements - Replacing identical equipment on existing systems (verify with AHJ)

Important: Even when permits may not be required, contractors must hold valid Florida state licenses. Working without a permit when required can result in fines to the building owner and potential requirement to redo the work.

Florida Contractor Licensing Requirements

Before performing access control work in Fort Lauderdale, contractors must hold appropriate state licensure through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Required License Types

License Type	Code	Scope
Electrical Contractor	EC	Full electrical including access control
Alarm System Contractor I	EF	All alarm systems including access control
Alarm System Contractor II	EG	Alarm systems excluding fire (includes access control)
Low Voltage Specialty	ES	Systems not exceeding 77 volts including electronic locks

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

Fort Lauderdale Permit Application Process

Step 1: Register on LauderBuild

LauderBuild is the City of Fort Lauderdale's Accela Citizen Access Portal for online permit services. Registration is free and provides access to full permitting services.

Note: As of January 1, 2024, the Development Services Department no longer accepts paper permit applications. All submissions must be digital via LauderBuild.

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

• Completed permit application
• Valid Florida contractor license number (EC, EF, EG, or ES)
• Project scope description
• Building address and owner information
• System plans (for larger commercial projects)

Step 3: Submit Through LauderBuild Plan Room

Use the LauderBuild Plan Room (LPR) to submit your permit application and any required plans digitally.

Step 4: Plan Review

The Development Services Department is committed to completing all initial permit reviews within 30 days or less.

Step 5: Pay Fees and Schedule Inspection

Once approved, pay permit fees through LauderBuild. Note: As of March 1, 2025, credit card payments incur a 2.75% service fee.

Permit Fees and Timeline

Item	Cost/Time
Low Voltage Permit Fee	$40 maximum (state cap)
Credit Card Service Fee	2.75% (as of March 2025)
Initial Review Time	30 days or less
Inspection Scheduling	24-48 hours advance notice

Broward County vs. City Permits

Understanding which jurisdiction handles your permit is critical:

• City of Fort Lauderdale: Use LauderBuild for properties within city limits
• Unincorporated Broward County: Apply through Broward County Building Division
• Other Broward municipalities: Contact the specific city for their permit requirements

Many cities in Broward County have their own permitting requirements. Always verify which jurisdiction applies to your project location.

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Access Control

• Single-family homes may have simplified permit requirements
• Multi-family buildings typically follow commercial requirements
• Gate access systems for residential communities may require permits
• Homeowner-builder permits available but place liability on homeowner

Commercial Access Control

• Nearly always requires permits through LauderBuild
• Fire door integration requires fire marshal approval
• ADA compliance considerations for accessible entrances
• Tenant buildouts may need separate electrical permits

Code Requirements

Fort Lauderdale enforces the following codes:

• Florida Building Code 8th Edition (2023) - Effective for all permits after December 31, 2023
• Fort Lauderdale Code of Ordinances - Local requirements
• NFPA 70 - National Electrical Code
• ADA requirements - For accessible entrances and egress

Inspection Requirements

Building Services performs inspections to ensure compliance with the Florida Building Code. Inspectors will verify:

• Proper installation per manufacturer specifications
• Correct wiring methods and materials
• Fire door release compliance (if applicable)
• Emergency egress requirements met
• Work matches approved permit scope

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Go digital: Paper applications are no longer accepted - use LauderBuild for all submissions
• Check jurisdiction: Verify whether the property is in Fort Lauderdale city limits or unincorporated Broward
• Register early: Set up your LauderBuild account before you need to pull permits
• Plan for fees: Credit card payments now include a 2.75% service fee
• Document fire integration: Access control on fire-rated doors requires additional fire marshal review

Contact Information

Department	Contact
Fort Lauderdale Development Services	fortlauderdale.gov
LauderBuild Portal	LauderBuild
Broward County Building	(954) 357-6666
Florida DBPR (Licensing)	(850) 487-1395

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides

• Florida Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
• Fort Lauderdale Fire Alarm Permit Requirements
• Miami Access Control Permit Requirements
• Tampa Access Control Permit Requirements