Security Camera Permit Requirements in Harris County, Texas

Quick Answer: Unincorporated Harris County does not require a separate permit for security camera installation, but alarm systems must be registered with the Harris County Sheriff's Office. If your location is within one of the 34 incorporated cities (like Houston), that city's requirements apply instead. All installers must hold a valid Texas PSB Class B Security Contractor License.

Harris County is Texas's most populous county, encompassing Houston and 33 other incorporated cities. Requirements vary significantly based on whether you're in an incorporated city or unincorporated county area.

First: Determine Your Jurisdiction

Harris County contains 34 incorporated cities, each with their own permit requirements:

• Houston - Has mandatory camera ordinance for certain businesses
• Pasadena, Baytown, Sugar Land, Pearland - Separate city requirements
• Katy, Spring, Humble, Cypress, Tomball, Kingwood, La Porte - City rules apply
• Plus 22 more incorporated municipalities

Unincorporated Harris County - Areas outside these cities fall under county jurisdiction and the requirements below.

How to Check: Contact the Harris County Sheriff's Office or check property records to determine if your location is in unincorporated Harris County.

Unincorporated Harris County Requirements

Security Cameras Only: No County Permit Required

For standalone security camera systems without alarm monitoring in unincorporated Harris County, no specific county permit is required.

You still need:

• Texas PSB Class B License - State requirement for all security camera installers
• Building permits through Harris County Permits and Inspections Division if electrical work is involved

Alarm Systems: Permit Required

Under Texas Local Government Code Sec. 233.092 and the Texas Rules Governing the Operation and Regulation of Alarm Systems in Unincorporated Harris County, no person shall operate an alarm system in unincorporated Harris County without a valid permit.

This applies to any alarm system that triggers response from the Harris County Sheriff's Department.

Harris County Alarm Permit Requirements

Who Needs a Permit?

Any residence or business with an alarm system located within unincorporated Harris County must register that system and obtain a Harris County Alarm Permit.

This includes:

• Burglar alarms
• Panic alarms
• Fire alarms
• Combined security/fire systems

Permit Types

Type	Coverage
Security Alarm	Burglar/intrusion only
Fire Alarm	Fire detection only
Combination	Security and fire combined

Where to Apply

Harris County Sheriff's Office - Alarm Administration
Website: harriscountyso.org

Key Rules

• Permits required before system activation
• Annual renewal required
• False alarm fees may apply
• Permits are non-transferable

Houston vs. Unincorporated Harris County

Requirement	Houston (City)	Unincorporated Harris County
Mandatory cameras for bars/nightclubs	Yes	No
Mandatory cameras for convenience stores	Yes	No
Alarm permit	Through Houston	Through HCSO
Camera-only permit	Not required	Not required
PSB license	Required	Required

If you're working in Houston specifically, see our Houston Security Camera Permit Guide.

Texas PSB Licensing Requirements

Regardless of location within Harris County, all security camera installers must hold a Texas Private Security Bureau license.

License Classifications

• Class A: Investigations company license
• Class B: Security services contractor license (required for cameras, alarms, CCTV)
• Class C: Covers both Class A and Class B operations

Requirements to Get Licensed

1. Pass two exams: Technical exam and Texas code exam
2. Pass the Certified Alarm Technician Level I exam (for installers)
3. Submit application to Texas DPS Private Security Bureau
4. Processing time: 6-8 weeks
5. Renewal: Annual

→ See our complete guide: Texas Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements

No Mandatory Camera Ordinance

Unlike the City of Houston, unincorporated Harris County does not have a mandatory security camera ordinance for any business type.

Fees and Timeline Summary

Item	Fee	Timeline
Harris County Alarm Permit	Varies	Before activation
Building/Electrical Permit	Based on scope	Before work
PSB Class B License	~$400-700	6-8 weeks
PSB License Renewal	~$200-300	Annual

Fees subject to change. Contact HCSO and HCPID for current fee schedules.

Pro Tips

Based on contractor experience in the Harris County market:

• Check jurisdiction first - Harris County has 34 incorporated cities with different rules. Houston's mandatory camera ordinance only applies within Houston city limits.
• Unincorporated = simpler - No mandatory camera requirements in unincorporated areas, unlike Houston.
• HCSO for alarms - All monitored alarm systems in unincorporated areas go through the Sheriff's Office.
• HCPID has e-permits - Use the online system for faster building permit processing.
• Know the 34 cities - Familiarize yourself with which areas are incorporated to quickly determine requirements.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Guides

• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Houston, Texas
• Texas Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements
• Harris County Sheriff's Office - Permits
• Harris County Permits and Inspections
• Texas DPS Private Security Bureau

Last updated: January 2025. Information verified against official sources. Requirements change—always confirm jurisdiction and contact HCSO, HCPID, and Texas PSB before starting work.