Access Control Permit Requirements in Horry County, South Carolina

Installing access control systems in Horry County involves understanding permit requirements, contractor licensing, and local building codes. This guide covers everything contractors need to know about card reader, key fob, and electronic door hardware installations in the Myrtle Beach area and unincorporated Horry County.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone low voltage access control. Access control systems operating at 50 volts or below typically don't require electrical permits in Horry County. However, permits may be required when installations involve electrical work above 50 volts, modifications to fire-rated doors, integration with fire alarm systems, or electromagnetic locks requiring special releasing methods.

What Is Considered Access Control?

Access control systems manage entry to buildings, rooms, and secured areas. Common installations include:

• Card reader and key fob entry systems
• Keypad and PIN code entry
• Biometric readers (fingerprint, facial recognition)
• Electric door locks (mag locks, electric strikes, mortise locks)
• Door controllers and access panels
• Video intercom systems
• Gate and barrier access systems

When Are Permits Required?

According to the International Building Code (IBC), permits may be required when installing electrical systems. For access control in Horry County, consider these factors:

Scenarios That May Require a Permit

• Electromagnetic locks: Some jurisdictions require special permits due to egress safety concerns
• Fire-rated door modifications: Installing hardware on fire doors may require inspection
• Integration with fire alarms: Door release tied to fire systems needs Fire Marshal approval
• Electrical work above 50 volts: New circuits for power supplies may require electrical permit
• New construction: Access control as part of building permits
• Commercial tenant improvements: Build-outs that include security as part of scope
• Projects over $5,000: Commercial projects trigger contractor licensing requirements

Work That Is Typically Exempt

• Standalone card reader installations using PoE
• Battery-powered smart locks
• Wireless access control systems
• Replacing existing access control hardware
• Adding readers to existing systems
• Keypad installations on standard doors

Horry County Permit Process

The Horry County Code Enforcement Department issues building permits and inspects construction in unincorporated areas.

How to Apply

1. Determine permit type: Building, electrical, or trade permit as applicable
2. Submit online: Through Horry County portal or in person
3. Pay fees: Based on project scope
4. Schedule inspections: Through online portal

Contact Information

Horry County Code Enforcement

• Address: 1301 Second Avenue, Suite 1D09, Conway, SC 29526
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm
• Website: Horry County Code Enforcement
• Permit Requirements: Permit Requirements Page
• Forms: Code Enforcement Forms

City of Myrtle Beach Permits

For projects within Myrtle Beach city limits, contact the Construction Services Department:

Submitting Applications

• Email electrical, plumbing, gas, and mechanical trade permits to permittech@cityofmyrtlebeach.com
• Forms available on the City Forms Page

Scheduling Inspections

• Phone: (843) 918-1111
• Morning inspection: Call by 4:00 PM the day before
• Afternoon inspection: Call by 9:00 AM the morning of

Myrtle Beach Contact

• Website: Construction Services Department

What Are the Fees?

Horry County and Myrtle Beach charge fees based on project scope:

Fee Type	Typical Range	Notes
Electrical Trade Permit	$50 - $150	Basic installations
Building Permit	Based on valuation	For structural work
Plan Review	Additional fee	Commercial projects

Note: Building permits are not refundable or transferable in Horry County.

South Carolina Contractor Licensing

South Carolina's licensing structure includes exemptions for low voltage work. For complete details, see our guide: South Carolina Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements.

Key Licensing Points for Access Control

• 50-volt exemption: Work at or below 50 volts exempt from electrical licensing
• Card access exemption: Specifically exempt from alarm licensing under SC law
• Commercial threshold: Projects over $5,000 require licensed contractor
• Residential threshold: Projects over $200 require licensing
• Low voltage license: Some jurisdictions require this even for simple electric strikes

South Carolina Contractors' Licensing Board

• Address: 110 Centerview Drive, Columbia, SC 29210
• Phone: (803) 896-4686
• Email: Contact.CLB@llr.sc.gov
• Website: SC Contractors' Licensing Board

Access Control Installation Costs

Typical costs for access control in the Horry County/Myrtle Beach area:

Component	Cost Range	Notes
Electronic Door Locks	$50 - $1,200	Per door
Card Readers/Controllers	$100 - $3,500	Varies by technology
Simple Keycard System	$500 - $2,000	Per door installed
Biometric/Cloud Systems	$2,000 - $5,000+	Per door with advanced features

Electromagnetic Lock Considerations

Electromagnetic (mag) locks require special attention due to egress safety:

• Special permits: Some jurisdictions require permits specifically for mag locks
• Releasing methods: Must comply with fire and life safety codes
• Fire alarm integration: Must release on fire alarm activation
• Emergency egress: Must allow free exit during emergencies
• AHJ inspection: Fire Marshal or building inspector may need to approve

Residential vs Commercial Access Control

Residential Installations

For home access control systems in Horry County:

• Smart locks and keypad entry typically don't require permits
• Homeowners can install their own low voltage systems
• If hiring a contractor for projects over $200, verify licensing
• Video doorbell systems are generally permit-exempt
• Gate operators may require permits depending on power requirements

Commercial Installations

For business access control projects:

• May require permits depending on scope and door types
• Projects over $5,000 require licensed contractors
• Fire-rated door hardware modifications require inspection
• Check with building inspector, electrical inspector, and Fire Marshal
• Detailed drawings may be required for complex systems
• ADA compliance required for accessible entries

Pro Tips for Horry County Access Control Projects

1. Verify jurisdiction: Determine if project is in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Conway, or unincorporated Horry County
2. Check with AHJ: Contact building inspector, electrical inspector, and Fire Marshal before starting
3. Mag lock permits: Verify if electromagnetic locks require special permits
4. Fire door compliance: Don't compromise fire-rated door assemblies
5. Coastal environment: Use equipment rated for humidity and salt air
6. Document everything: Keep installation records even when permits aren't required

Understanding Jurisdictions in Horry County

Horry County includes multiple municipalities:

• Horry County (unincorporated): Code Enforcement in Conway
• City of Myrtle Beach: Construction Services Department
• North Myrtle Beach: Separate Building Department
• City of Conway: Separate permitting authority
• Surfside Beach: Separate permitting

Verify which jurisdiction applies to your project address before starting work.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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Related Permit Guides for Horry County

• Security Camera Permits in Horry County
• Fire Alarm Permits in Horry County
• South Carolina Low Voltage Contractor License Requirements

Last updated: January 2026. Always verify current requirements with Horry County Code Enforcement or City of Myrtle Beach Construction Services before starting work.