Security Camera Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, Texas
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Fort Worth requires alarm permits for monitored systems but no building permit for cameras. No mandatory camera ordinance. PSB licensing and contractor registration required.
Security Camera Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, Texas
Quick Answer: Fort Worth does not require a building permit specifically for security camera installation, but if your system includes an alarm component, you'll need an alarm permit from the City's False Alarm Reduction Program. All installers must be registered contractors with Fort Worth Development Services and hold a valid Texas PSB Class B Security Contractor License.
Fort Worth has a straightforward approach to security camera regulations compared to Houston or Dallas. Here's what contractors and business owners need to know.
When Is a Permit Required?
Security Cameras Only: No Building Permit Required
If you're installing a standalone security camera system (video surveillance without alarm monitoring), Fort Worth does not require a building permit for the camera installation itself.
However, you still need:
- Texas PSB Class B License - State requirement for all security camera installers
- Fort Worth Contractor Registration - Required for any contractor doing permitted work in the city
Security Cameras with Alarm Monitoring: Alarm Permit Required
If your security camera system is integrated with or includes alarm monitoring that notifies police, you'll need an alarm permit from Fort Worth.
Fort Worth Alarm Permit Requirements
Who Needs an Alarm Permit?
Any residential or commercial property with an alarm system that provides indirect reporting to the Fort Worth Police Department (through an alarm monitoring company) must have a valid alarm permit.
Permit Fees
| Property Type | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Residential | $50 |
| Commercial | $100 |
Permit Duration
Each permit is valid for 12 months from the date of issuance and must be renewed annually.
Exemptions
- State and federal government entities (no permit required)
- City and county political subdivisions (permit required, but no fees)
- Low-income residential properties (fee waived with proof of income - single-family only)
How to Apply
Online: Fort Worth False Alarm Reduction Program
Phone: (833) 281-8742
Mail: Fort Worth False Alarm Reduction Program, PO Box 208767, Fort Worth, TX
False Alarm Fines
Fort Worth has a False Alarm Reduction Program. Excessive false alarms will result in fines. Ensure systems are properly installed and maintained to avoid penalties.
Fort Worth Contractor Registration
Registration Required
Any firm, business, individual, or organization obtaining a permit related to building, mechanical, plumbing, or electrical provisions must have a valid Contractor Registration on file with the Development Services Department.
Where to Register
Fort Worth Development Services Department
Website: fortworthtexas.gov/departments/development-services
Online Permitting System available for applications
Building Codes in Effect
Fort Worth has adopted:
- 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC)
- 2021 International Building Code
- 2021 International Fire Code
- 2015 Energy Conservation Code
Texas PSB Licensing Requirements
Beyond Fort Worth registration, state law requires PSB licensing for security camera installation.
License Classifications
- Class A: Investigations company license
- Class B: Security services contractor license (required for cameras, alarms, CCTV)
- Class C: Covers both Class A and Class B operations
Requirements to Get Licensed
- Pass two exams: Technical exam and Texas code exam
- Pass the Certified Alarm Technician Level I exam (for installers)
- Submit application to Texas DPS Private Security Bureau
- Processing time: 6-8 weeks
- Renewal: Annual
- Company license fee: ~$400 for Class B
Key Points
- Electricians are NOT exempt - Electrical contractor licenses don't authorize security camera installation
- Individual registration - Technicians must register through a licensed company
- Active enforcement - Violations are Class A misdemeanor, escalating to third-degree felony for repeat offenses
→ See our complete guide: Texas Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
Residential vs. Commercial Projects
Residential Installations
- No building permit for camera-only systems
- Alarm permit required if monitoring connects to police dispatch ($50/year)
- PSB-licensed installer required (unless DIY on own property)
Commercial Installations
- No building permit for camera-only systems
- Alarm permit required if monitoring connects to police dispatch ($100/year)
- Must use Fort Worth-registered contractor
- PSB license required
- Building permit must be obtained before any trade permits if other work involved
No Mandatory Camera Ordinance
Unlike Houston (which requires cameras for bars, nightclubs, convenience stores) or Dallas (convenience store ordinance), Fort Worth does not have a mandatory security camera ordinance for specific business types.
Businesses can choose whether to install cameras based on their security needs rather than legal mandate.
Fees and Timeline Summary
| Item | Fee | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Worth Alarm Permit (Residential) | $50 | Annual |
| Fort Worth Alarm Permit (Commercial) | $100 | Annual |
| PSB Class B License Application | ~$400-700 | 6-8 weeks |
| PSB License Renewal | ~$200-300 | Annual |
Fees subject to change. Verify with Fort Worth Development Services and Texas DPS.
Pro Tips
Based on contractor experience in the Fort Worth market:
- Alarm permit first - Register the system with the False Alarm Reduction Program before activation to avoid issues
- False alarm prevention - Train end users properly. Fort Worth actively fines for excessive false alarms.
- Simpler than Houston - No mandatory camera ordinances means fewer compliance hoops for most businesses
- 2023 NEC - Fort Worth has adopted the latest electrical code. Ensure your work meets current standards.
- Contact info matters - Alarm permits require an individual contact person, not just a company name
Stay Ahead of Permit Activity
Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Fort Worth before they reach bid boards?
LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Texas and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.
Related Guides
- Texas Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
- Fort Worth Development Services
- Fort Worth Alarm Permits
- Texas DPS Private Security Bureau
- Security Camera Permit Requirements in Dallas, Texas
Last updated: January 2025. Information verified against official sources. Requirements change—always confirm with Fort Worth Development Services and the Texas PSB before starting work.
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