Security Camera Permit Requirements in Gwinnett County, Georgia
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Complete guide to security camera permits in Gwinnett County, Georgia. Covers Georgia LVA licensing, Gwinnett Police alarm registration, false alarm fees, and privacy law compliance.
Security Camera Permit Requirements in Gwinnett County, Georgia
Quick Answer: Gwinnett County does not require specific permits for security camera installations themselves. However, contractors must hold a Georgia Low Voltage Contractor license (LVA or LVU). If cameras connect to a monitored alarm system, registration with the Gwinnett County Police Department False Alarm Reduction Program is mandatory.
When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras in Gwinnett County?
Security camera installations in unincorporated Gwinnett County typically do not require dedicated permits for the camera equipment. However, related work may trigger permit requirements.
Situations That May Require Permits
- New electrical circuits: Running dedicated power for camera systems
- Structural modifications: Mounting poles, roof penetrations, or wall modifications
- Commercial construction: Security systems as part of larger building projects
- Conduit installation: New conduit runs through building structures
Typically Permit-Exempt Work
- Standalone camera installations using existing power
- Wireless camera systems
- Surface-mounted cable runs
- IP cameras using existing network infrastructure
- Residential camera systems
Note: Gwinnett County includes several incorporated cities (Lawrenceville, Duluth, Snellville, Suwanee, Buford, and others). Each city has separate permit requirements. This guide covers unincorporated Gwinnett County under county police jurisdiction.
Gwinnett County Alarm Registration Requirements
If your security camera system connects to a monitored alarm system, registration with the Gwinnett County Police Department False Alarm Reduction Program is required.
Registration Details
- Requirement: All security alarm systems must be registered
- Applies to: Both residential and commercial alarm sites
- Coverage: Addresses served by Gwinnett County Police (not city police)
- Partner: Program administered by CryWolf Technologies
How to Register
Register your alarm system through one of these methods:
- Online: CryWolf Services Portal
- Phone: (833) 281-8743
- Mail: Download paper form and mail to PO Box 745856, Atlanta, GA 30374-5856
- Email: gwinnettcoga@alarm-billing.com
False Alarm Fee Schedule
| False Alarm | Fee |
|---|---|
| 1st false alarm | No fine |
| 2nd false alarm | $25 |
| 3rd false alarm | $50 |
| 4th and subsequent | $100 each |
| Unregistered system (per false alarm) | Additional $25 |
| Registration reinstatement | $100 |
Why Registration Matters
In 2020, Gwinnett County Police responded to approximately 22,450 alarm calls, but only 163 were valid emergencies. The registration program helps reduce false alarms and ensures efficient emergency response.
Georgia Low Voltage Contractor Licensing
Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 43-14) requires contractors performing low voltage work for compensation to hold a valid license.
License Types for Security Camera Work
| License | Code | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | LVU | All low voltage work |
| Alarm | LVA | Security, CCTV, and alarm systems |
| General | LVG | General low voltage (non-alarm) |
License Requirements
- Experience: Minimum 1-2 years in the license category
- References: 3 letters including one from licensed contractor
- Examination: Pass state exam with 70% or higher
- Application: Submit through Georgia GOALS portal
For complete licensing details, see our Georgia Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.
Georgia Security Camera Laws
Understanding Georgia privacy laws ensures compliant camera installations:
Legal Camera Placement
- Public areas: Cameras may monitor any area visible to the public
- Business premises: Parking lots, entrances, lobbies, and work areas permitted
- Visibility: Georgia law requires cameras to be in plain sight
- Employee monitoring: Legal with legitimate business purpose
Prohibited Locations
- Privacy zones: Bathrooms, locker rooms, changing areas
- Private spaces: Areas with reasonable privacy expectations
- Neighbor property: Cannot capture neighbor private areas
Audio Recording
Georgia is a one-party consent state for audio recording. At least one party to the conversation must consent. For workplace audio, provide clear notice to employees.
Gwinnett County Building Permit Process
If your project requires permits for electrical or structural work:
Permit Application
Submit applications through the Gwinnett County Accela Portal (ZIP Portal).
Scheduling Inspections
- Online: Through Accela/ZIP Portal
- Phone: 24/7 automated line at 678-518-6277
- Electrical inspector direct: 678-518-6050 (7:00-7:30 AM or 3:00-4:00 PM)
Contact Information
Gwinnett County Department of Planning and Development
Building Permits Section
One Justice Square
446 West Crogan Street, Suite 300
Lawrenceville, Georgia 30046
Phone: 678-518-6020
Email: P&D-BuildingPermits@GwinnettCounty.com
Building Inspections
Phone: 678-518-6002 (7 AM - 4 PM, Monday-Friday)
Email: P&D-BuildingInspections@GwinnettCounty.com
Residential vs. Commercial Requirements
Residential Security Cameras
- Generally no permits required for camera equipment
- Register alarm systems with county police
- Georgia license required for hired contractors
- Avoid capturing neighbor private areas
Commercial Security Cameras
- Permits may be required for electrical work
- Alarm registration mandatory if monitored
- Employee notification recommended
- Post visible signage indicating surveillance
Pro Tips from Georgia Security Contractors
- Verify jurisdiction: Confirm county vs. city coverage before quoting
- Register early: Complete alarm registration before system goes live
- Train customers: Educate on proper system use to reduce false alarms
- Document placement: Photograph camera positions for service records
- Weather protection: Use outdoor-rated equipment for Georgia climate
- Network security: Change default passwords on all IP cameras
- Test thoroughly: Verify all camera views and recording before leaving
Cities Within Gwinnett County
These incorporated cities have separate permit and alarm registration requirements:
| City | Notes |
|---|---|
| Lawrenceville | Contact city building department |
| Duluth | Contact city building department |
| Snellville | Contact city building department |
| Suwanee | Contact city building department |
| Buford | Contact city building department |
| Lilburn | Contact city building department |
| Norcross | Contact city building department |
Stay Ahead of Permit Activity
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