Security Camera Permit Requirements in Fort Smith, Arkansas

Installing security cameras in Fort Smith involves understanding local permit rules and state licensing requirements. This guide covers what low voltage contractors need to know about CCTV and video surveillance installations in Arkansas's second-largest city.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no permit is required for standalone security camera installations in Fort Smith. Video surveillance systems are classified as low voltage work (under 50 volts) and are exempt from electrical permit requirements under Arkansas Code Section 17-28-102(a)(3). However, permits may be required for associated electrical work or when cameras are part of larger construction projects.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Permits are required in Fort Smith when your security camera project involves:

• 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
• Outdoor pole installations - May require site plan review or right-of-way permits

Fort Smith requires building permits for any construction, enlargement, alteration, or installation of electrical systems. Since security cameras use low voltage wiring, the cameras themselves typically don't trigger permit requirements, but associated high-voltage work does.

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

Yes, in most commercial cases. Arkansas State Police regulates alarm systems companies, which includes businesses that install surveillance systems. The regulation applies to companies that sell, install, service, or inspect surveillance systems.

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

License Fees

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

Exemptions

Standalone CCTV systems without monitoring or alarm notification capabilities may not require licensing. However, if your surveillance system includes:

• Remote monitoring services
• Motion detection alerts sent to central stations
• Integration with burglar alarm systems

Then Class E licensing is required.

How Do You Get a Permit in Fort Smith When Required?

For projects requiring permits (electrical work, new construction):

1. Determine permit type - Contact Building Safety to confirm requirements
2. Submit application - Provide system plans and specifications
3. Pay fees - Based on project scope
4. Schedule inspection - If electrical work is involved
5. Receive approval - Obtain certificate of completion

Contact Information

Fort Smith Building Safety Division
623 Garrison Avenue, Suite 405
Fort Smith, AR 72901
Phone: (479) 784-1051
Residential Contractors: (479) 784-2206

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

Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board
Phone: (501) 372-4661

What Are Arkansas Video Surveillance Laws?

Fort Smith follows Arkansas state privacy laws for surveillance cameras:

• Exterior recording allowed - Property owners can install cameras and record exterior areas
• No reasonable expectation of privacy - Courts hold there's no privacy expectation in public or 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

Inform clients about proper camera placement to avoid privacy violations. Cameras should cover the client's property, not neighboring private areas.

Residential vs Commercial Security Cameras

Residential Installations

Home security camera systems in Fort Smith typically:

• Don't require building permits for low voltage work
• May not require licensing for DIY or standalone systems
• Should comply with HOA rules if applicable
• Must respect neighbor privacy (don't record their property)

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
• Remote monitoring capabilities
• License requirements for installing contractor

A City of Fort Smith Business Occupation License is required to operate as a contractor within city jurisdiction.

What Types of Camera Systems Are Covered?

Common security camera technologies installed in Fort Smith:

• IP cameras - Network-connected cameras with PoE power
• Analog CCTV - Traditional coaxial systems with DVR
• HD-TVI/CVI/AHD - High-definition analog systems
• Wireless cameras - WiFi-connected devices
• PTZ cameras - Pan-tilt-zoom for large area coverage
• License plate readers - ANPR/ALPR systems (additional regulations may apply)
• Thermal cameras - Heat-detection surveillance

Pro Tips for Security Camera Contractors in Fort Smith

• Business license required - Register with Fort Smith before working in city jurisdiction
• Verify licensing reciprocity - Fort Smith reciprocates with other Arkansas cities if you have no local office
• Camera placement matters - Position cameras to avoid capturing neighbor properties or private areas
• PoE simplifies installs - Power over Ethernet eliminates need for separate power runs
• Document coverage areas - Provide clients with camera view maps showing monitored areas
• Weatherproofing - Use IP66 or higher rated equipment for outdoor installations in Arkansas climate
• Storage calculations - Help clients understand retention requirements based on camera count and resolution

Stay Ahead of Security Camera Project Activity

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Related Permit Guides

• Security Camera Permits in Little Rock

Summary

Security camera installations in Fort Smith typically don't require building permits unless electrical work or construction modifications are involved. Contractors installing surveillance systems commercially should hold a Class E license from Arkansas State Police. Follow Arkansas privacy laws regarding camera placement, and register for a Fort Smith Business Occupation License before operating in the city. Low voltage work is generally exempt from permit requirements under state law.