Security Camera Permit Requirements in Greenville, South Carolina

Installing security cameras in Greenville, SC? Whether you're a low voltage contractor handling a commercial project or a business owner adding surveillance to your property, understanding local permit requirements is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know about permits, licensing, and regulations for security camera installations in Greenville.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for cameras alone. Security camera installations in Greenville typically do not require a standalone permit for the cameras themselves. However, if your installation involves electrical work beyond low-voltage wiring—such as adding new circuits or modifying existing electrical systems—you will need an electrical permit from the City of Greenville or Greenville County depending on your location.

When Is a Permit Required for Security Cameras?

While standalone camera installations usually don't require permits, certain situations do trigger permit requirements:

• New electrical circuits: If you're adding dedicated circuits for camera power, an electrical permit is required
• Structural modifications: Mounting cameras that require cutting into walls or running conduit may need a building permit
• Commercial alarm integration: Systems connected to monitoring services require alarm registration with Greenville Police Department
• POE systems with extensive wiring: Large-scale structured cabling projects may require low-voltage permits

What About Alarm System Registration?

If your security camera system includes alarm monitoring or is integrated with an alarm system, you'll need to register with the appropriate agency:

• City of Greenville: Commercial/Residential Permit Registration Fee of $10.00 (one-time) with the Greenville Police Department
• Greenville County (unincorporated areas): Contact the Greenville County Sheriff's Office for registration

Once registered, your alarm permit automatically renews annually at no additional cost.

Do You Need a Contractor License to Install Security Cameras in South Carolina?

Yes, if you're operating as a security contractor. South Carolina requires security system installers to be licensed through the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). This is separate from any local permit requirements.

SLED Security Business License Requirements

To legally install security systems in South Carolina, contractors 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
• Maintain a competent, certified training officer

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

How Do You Apply for an Electrical Permit in Greenville?

If your security camera installation requires electrical work, here's how to apply:

City of Greenville

1. Download the Electrical Permit Application from the City website
2. Complete all required fields including project description and scope of work
3. Submit the application to Building Codes at 864-232-CARE (2273)
4. Pay the permit fee (varies based on project scope)
5. Schedule inspections as required

Greenville County (Unincorporated Areas)

1. Contact Planning and Code Compliance at 864-467-7060
2. Obtain the Greenville County Electrical Permit Application
3. Submit with required documentation
4. Note: Permits become invalid after 6 months if work hasn't commenced

Fees and Timeline

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

Residential vs Commercial Installations

Residential Projects

Homeowners installing their own security cameras typically don't need permits for basic installations. However:

• If hiring a contractor, ensure they hold a valid SLED license
• Audio recording requires understanding South Carolina's one-party consent laws
• Cameras must not record areas where others have a reasonable expectation of privacy
• Consider registering cameras with the City's SafeWatch Camera program to assist law enforcement

Commercial Projects

Commercial installations typically involve:

• SLED-licensed contractor requirement
• Potential electrical permits for extensive wiring
• Alarm registration if integrated with monitoring
• Compliance with employee notification requirements for workplace surveillance

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid?

Based on contractor experience in the Greenville area:

• Confusing city and county jurisdictions: Always verify whether the property is in Greenville city limits or unincorporated Greenville County—the requirements differ
• Skipping SLED licensing: Operating without a SLED license can result in fines and legal issues
• Ignoring alarm registration: Unregistered alarm systems may result in false alarm fines
• Not pulling electrical permits: If you're adding circuits, get the permit—inspectors do check

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• SafeWatch enrollment: Encourage clients to register cameras with Greenville's SafeWatch program—it's free and builds community trust
• Document everything: Keep records of all permits, inspections, and SLED documentation for each job
• Know your boundaries: Greenville County and the City of Greenville have different permit offices—verify jurisdiction before applying
• Plan for inspections: County permits expire after 6 months of inactivity, so schedule inspections promptly

Official Resources and Contacts

• City of Greenville Building Codes: 864-232-CARE (2273) | buildingcodes@greenvillesc.gov
• Greenville County Planning and Code Compliance: 864-467-7060
• Greenville Police Department (Alarm Registration): GPD Permits Page
• SLED Regulatory Services: (803) 737-9000 | reglicense@sled.sc.gov | SLED Private Security Licensing

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across South Carolina and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.

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