Security Camera Permit Requirements in Franklin County, Ohio

Quick Answer: Most security camera installations in Franklin County, Ohio do not require permits when operating under 50 volts. Franklin County follows Ohio Building Code which exempts most low voltage work. Electrical permits are required when installing new 120V circuits. Note that projects within the City of Columbus require Columbus permits rather than Franklin County permits.

When Are Permits Required?

Franklin County follows the Ohio Building Code. For security camera systems:

• No permit required: Low voltage camera systems (under 50V)
• No permit required: IP cameras using existing network infrastructure
• No permit required: PoE camera systems on existing network
• No permit required: Wireless and battery-powered cameras
• Electrical permit required: New 120V circuits for camera power supplies
• Electrical permit required: Line voltage connections for equipment
• Fire alarm permit required: Cameras integrated with fire alarm systems

Jurisdiction Check

Important: Before applying for permits, confirm your jurisdiction:

• City of Columbus: Use Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services
• Unincorporated Franklin County: Use Franklin County Building Department
• Other municipalities: Check with that city's building department

Ohio Contractor Licensing

Ohio does not have a statewide security camera license:

OCILB Electrical Licensing

The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) regulates electrical work:

• Required for: Line voltage electrical work only
• Not required for: Low voltage camera systems under 50V
• Experience: 5 years for electrical license
• Insurance: $500,000 minimum liability

Franklin County Permit Application Process

When electrical permits are required:

Step 1: Verify Jurisdiction

Confirm your property is in unincorporated Franklin County, not within a municipality.

Step 2: Submit Application Online

Apply through the Franklin County Public Portal (SmartGov).

Step 3: Required Documents

• Completed permit application
• System layout showing camera locations
• Electrical load calculations (if applicable)
• Contractor license information

Contact Information

Franklin County Building Department
Phone: (614) 525-3166
Website: franklincountyohio.gov/Building-Permits

Fees and Processing Timeline

Service	Fee	Timeline
Electrical Permit	Based on valuation	3-5 business days
Building Permit (after plan approval)	Varies	7-10 days
Reinspection	$50+	As scheduled

Residential vs. Commercial Projects

Residential Security Cameras

• Doorbell cameras (Ring, Nest, Arlo): No permit required
• DVR/NVR systems with PoE cameras: No permit required
• Wireless camera systems: No permit required
• Franklin County handles 1-3 family residential permits

Commercial Security Cameras

• IP camera systems: No permit if using existing network
• Analog systems with new wiring: May need electrical permit
• Commercial permits: Issued by State of Ohio
• Access control integration: Check fire code requirements

Ohio Security Camera Laws

Important legal requirements for Franklin County installations:

Privacy Requirements

• No cameras in private areas: Bathrooms, changing rooms prohibited
• Legitimate purpose: Must have business reason for recording
• Signage recommended: Post visible notices about surveillance
• Employee notification: Inform staff about recording

Audio Recording

• One-party consent: Ohio Revised Code § 2933.52
• At least one party: Must consent to audio recording

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Jurisdiction first: Verify whether property is in Columbus, another municipality, or unincorporated county
• Low voltage advantage: Most IP camera jobs under 50V need no permit
• SmartGov portal: Use online portal for faster permit processing
• PoE simplifies: Power over Ethernet eliminates electrical permit needs
• Commercial note: State of Ohio handles commercial building permits in Franklin County

Common Installation Scenarios

Home Security - 8 Camera System

Residential PoE camera system with NVR: No permit required (under 50V). No state license required.

Small Business Surveillance

Commercial IP camera system: No permit if using existing network. Verify jurisdiction—may need Columbus permit if within city limits.

Warehouse with New Electrical

Camera system requiring new 120V circuits: Electrical permit required. OCILB license required. Commercial permits through State of Ohio.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Ohio and alerts you to opportunities the moment they are filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Guides

• Ohio Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
• Columbus Security Camera Permits