Access Control Permit Requirements in Greenville, South Carolina

Installing access control systems in Greenville, SC? Whether you're a low voltage contractor working on a commercial building or a facility manager upgrading to keycard entry, understanding local permit and licensing requirements is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know about permits, contractor licensing, and regulations for access control installations in Greenville.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on the scope of work. Standalone access control installations that only involve low-voltage wiring typically don't require electrical permits in Greenville. However, systems that require new electrical circuits, structural modifications, or integration with fire alarm systems may require permits. If your system connects to alarm monitoring, you'll need to register with the Greenville Police Department or Sheriff's Office.

When Is a Permit Required for Access Control Systems?

Access control installations may trigger permit requirements in these situations:

• New electrical circuits: Adding 110V power for electric strikes, maglocks, or control panels requires an electrical permit
• Fire alarm integration: Access control tied to fire alarm release functions requires fire alarm permits
• Door modifications: Cutting into fire-rated doors or frames may require building permits
• Monitored alarm systems: Systems connected to central station monitoring require alarm registration
• New construction: Access control as part of new construction falls under the overall building permit

What Typically Doesn't Require a Permit?

• Low-voltage wiring for card readers, keypads, and controllers
• Replacing existing access control components
• Standalone systems without alarm monitoring
• Door hardware that doesn't modify fire-rated assemblies

How Do You Apply for Permits in Greenville?

City of Greenville (Incorporated Areas)

The City of Greenville Permit Center handles building and electrical permits:

1. Access the City of Greenville Permit Center online portal
2. Submit electronic plans if required for larger projects
3. Pay permit fees (varies based on project value)
4. Schedule inspections upon completion

Contact: 864-232-CARE (2273) | 204 Halton Road, Greenville, SC 29607

Greenville County (Unincorporated Areas)

For projects in unincorporated Greenville County:

1. Submit permits through eTrakit online portal
2. Download the Electrical Permit Application if electrical work is required
3. Allow 6-8 weeks processing time for permit issuance
4. Note: Permits expire after 6 months if work hasn't commenced

Contact: Greenville County Building Safety | 864-467-7060 | permits@greenvillecounty.org

Do You Need a Contractor License for Access Control Work in South Carolina?

Yes, in most commercial cases. Access control installation in South Carolina typically falls under SLED (South Carolina Law Enforcement Division) security contractor licensing requirements.

SLED Security Business License Requirements

Contractors installing access control systems as part of security services must:

• Pay a $350 annual license fee to SLED
• Post a $10,000 surety bond
• Submit fingerprints and pass a background check
• Provide a certified training program or use approved training sources
• Designate a Primary Qualifying Party (owner, partner, officer, or management employee)

For complete licensing details, see our guide: South Carolina Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements

When SLED Licensing May Not Apply

Some access control work may fall under electrical contractor licensing through the SC Contractor's Licensing Board rather than SLED, particularly:

• Installations performed by licensed electricians as part of electrical contracts
• IT/network-based access control without security monitoring
• Internal installations by facility maintenance staff

Contact SLED Regulatory Services at reglicense@sled.sc.gov to clarify licensing requirements for your specific situation.

Alarm Registration Requirements

If your access control system includes monitoring or alarm features, registration is required:

City of Greenville

• Registration fee: $10.00 one-time
• Annual renewal: Free (automatic)
• Register at: Greenville Police Department Alarm Registration

Greenville County (Unincorporated)

• Registration fee: $10.00
• Update required: Within 30 days if address changes
• Register with: Greenville County Sheriff's Office

Fees and Timeline

Requirement	Fee	Timeline
Electrical Permit (if needed)	Varies by project value	6-8 weeks (County)
Building Permit (if needed)	Varies by project value	3-5 business days (City)
Alarm Registration (City)	$10 one-time	1-3 business days
Alarm Registration (County)	$10	1-3 business days
SLED Business License	$350 annually	4-6 weeks
SLED Surety Bond	$10,000	Varies by insurer

Note: Starting July 1, 2025, Greenville County building permit fees increased by 20 percent.

Residential vs Commercial Installations

Residential Access Control

• Smart locks and keypads: Generally no permit required
• Video intercom systems: No permit for low-voltage installation
• Gate access systems: May require electrical permit for gate operator power
• Monitored systems: Require alarm registration with GPD or GCSO
• Homeowner self-installation: No contractor license required

Commercial Access Control

• SLED-licensed contractor typically required
• Fire alarm integration requires proper permits and licensed fire alarm contractor
• ADA compliance for accessible entrances
• Coordination with fire marshal for egress requirements
• May require fire-rated door hardware certification

What Are Common Access Control Code Considerations?

Access control installations must comply with life safety codes:

• Egress requirements: Doors in the means of egress must allow free egress during emergencies
• Fire alarm integration: Access control must release locked doors upon fire alarm activation
• Power failure: Many jurisdictions require fail-safe (unlock) operation during power loss for egress doors
• ADA compliance: Accessible routes must have compliant hardware operation

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid?

• Ignoring fire code integration: Access control on fire exit doors must tie into fire alarm systems
• Skipping SLED licensing: Operating as a security contractor without SLED license can result in fines
• Confusing jurisdictions: City of Greenville and Greenville County have different permit offices and requirements
• Missing alarm registration: Monitored systems require registration to avoid false alarm penalties
• Permit expiration: County permits expire after 6 months of inactivity

Pro Tips from Access Control Contractors

• Clarify licensing upfront: Contact SLED before bidding to confirm whether your scope requires SLED or LLR licensing
• Coordinate with fire alarm: Always involve the fire alarm contractor early if integration is required
• Document door ratings: Before modifying any door, verify and document its fire rating
• Use eTrakit: Greenville County's online portal speeds up the permit process significantly
• Budget for processing time: County permits currently have 6-8 week processing times—plan accordingly

Official Resources and Contacts

• City of Greenville Permit Center: 864-232-CARE (2273) | Permits & Forms
• Greenville County Building Safety: 864-467-7060 | permits@greenvillecounty.org | Building Safety Forms
• Greenville Police Department (Alarm Registration): GPD Licenses
• SLED Regulatory Services: (803) 737-9000 | reglicense@sled.sc.gov | Private Security Licensing

Related Permit Guides for Greenville

• Security Camera Permits in Greenville, SC
• Fire Alarm Permits in Greenville, SC

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when access control projects hit permits in Greenville before they reach bid boards?

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Last updated: January 2026. Always verify current requirements with local authorities before beginning work.