Security Camera Permit Requirements in Gresham, Oregon

Installing security cameras in Gresham requires understanding Oregon's contractor licensing requirements and the city's electrical permit process. As part of the Portland metropolitan area, Gresham follows Oregon state building codes with some local variations. This guide covers everything contractors need to know about permits and compliance in Oregon's fourth-largest city.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on the installation type. Many low-voltage security camera installations may be exempt from permits in Gresham. The city exempts certain low-voltage wiring including phone outlets and coaxial cable installations. However, commercial security systems with extensive wiring or integration with other building systems typically require electrical permits.

What Counts as a Security Camera Installation?

Security camera systems include:

• IP camera networks with PoE switches
• Analog CCTV systems with DVR recording
• Wireless camera systems with wired power
• Video intercom and doorbell cameras
• License plate recognition (LPR) systems
• Integration with access control or alarm systems

When Are Permits Required in Gresham?

The City of Gresham Building Department requires permits to install, enlarge, alter, or replace electrical systems. However, certain low-voltage work may be exempt.

May Be Exempt

• Installing low-voltage wiring similar to phone/CATV wiring
• Using properly listed and insulated wire types
• Simple residential camera additions
• Battery-powered wireless cameras
• Plug-in doorbell cameras

Permit Likely Required

• Commercial surveillance system installations
• Systems requiring conduit installation
• Integration with fire alarm or access control
• New construction projects
• Systems over 600 volts (specialized equipment)

When in doubt, contact Gresham Building Services at (503) 618-2845 to confirm requirements.

Oregon Contractor Licensing Requirements

Before performing work in Gresham, contractors must hold proper Oregon state credentials.

Required Licenses

• CCB License - Oregon Construction Contractors Board registration
• Limited Energy (LE) Endorsement - Required for low-voltage installations
• Electrical License - Supervising electrician license on file with Oregon BCD
• Insurance - Liability and workers' compensation as required

Important: Oregon law requires the electrical contractor to obtain the electrical permit. Electrical permits are non-transferable.

For complete licensing details, see our Oregon Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

How to Apply for Security Camera Permits in Gresham

Step 1: Gather Documentation

Before applying, prepare:

• Property address and owner information
• Scope of work description
• CCB license number
• Electrical license number
• Supervising electrician's license number

Step 2: Submit Application

Submit permit applications to Gresham Building Services:

City of Gresham Building Services
1333 NW Eastman Parkway
Gresham, OR 97030
Phone: (503) 618-2845
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm
Online: greshamoregon.gov/Building-and-Permits

Step 3: Permit Issuance

Trade permits (electrical) typically process without extensive plan review. Pay fees and receive permit for posting at job site.

Step 4: Schedule Inspections

After installation, schedule required inspections:

• Rough-in inspection - Wiring before concealment
• Final inspection - Complete system verification

What Are the Fees for Security Camera Permits?

Permit Type	Fee Range	Notes
Electrical Permit (Low Voltage)	$85-$150	Based on circuits/devices
Plan Review	Varies	If required for commercial
Re-inspection Fee	$75+	Per failed inspection

Contact Gresham Building Services for current fee schedules.

How Long Does the Permit Process Take?

Phase	Timeline
Application submission	Same day
Trade permit review	1-3 business days
Permit issuance	Same day after approval
Inspection scheduling	24-48 hours notice

Residential vs Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

Home security cameras in Gresham:

• Many low-voltage installations may be exempt
• Must use properly listed wire types
• Plug-in and battery cameras generally exempt
• Homeowners can pull permits for their own property

Commercial Installations

Business surveillance projects typically require:

• Electrical permits for new installations
• Licensed contractor must perform work
• Oregon law requires contractor obtain permit
• Integration with other systems may require additional review

Special Considerations for Gresham

Portland Metro Area

Gresham is part of the Portland metropolitan area. Contractors working across multiple jurisdictions should note:

• Each city has its own permit requirements
• Oregon state licensing applies throughout
• Multnomah County may have jurisdiction in unincorporated areas

Gresham/East Multnomah County

Gresham provides electrical permit services for East Multnomah County. The electrical permit application specifically covers the Gresham/East Multnomah County area.

Oregon Privacy Laws

Oregon law affects camera placement:

• Recording in private areas without consent is prohibited
• Audio recording requires all-party consent
• Public areas can generally be recorded
• Workplace monitoring has notification requirements

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Verify exemptions - Call (503) 618-2845 to confirm if your project is exempt
• Use listed wire - Exempt installations still require properly listed wire types
• Contractor obtains permit - Oregon law requires the electrical contractor get the permit
• Permits are non-transferable - Cannot transfer between contractors
• Keep licenses current - Gresham verifies CCB and electrical licenses
• Document installation - Photos help resolve inspection questions

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

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Additional Resources

• City of Gresham Building and Permits
• Gresham Projects Not Requiring Permits
• Oregon Construction Contractors Board
• Oregon Low Voltage License Requirements