Access Control Permit Requirements in Houston, Texas

Quick Answer: Yes, Houston requires electronic locks permits for access control installations. Permit fees range from $80.41 (1-5 devices) to $172.29+ (11+ devices). Contractors must hold a Texas DPS Private Security Bureau Class D Electronic Access Control Device Company license or Class B combination license.

Do You Need a Permit for Access Control in Houston?

Houston requires permits for electronic access control systems through the Electronic Locks Permit program. This covers card readers, keypads, biometric access devices, and magnetic locks installed on commercial and multi-tenant buildings.

The permit ensures that electronic locking systems are installed correctly and that under emergency conditions, all magnetic locks release to provide immediate exit egress—a critical life safety requirement.

When a Permit IS Required

• Commercial buildings installing electronic access control
• Multi-family residential properties (apartments, condos)
• Any building with mag-lock or electric strike installations
• Card reader and keypad access systems
• Biometric access control systems
• Intercom systems with electric door release

Exemptions (May Not Require Permit)

• Single-family residential installations (verify with local authority)
• Standalone keypad locks without building system integration
• Replacement of existing devices with same specifications

Note: Even when permits may not be required, state contractor licensing is always mandatory for professional installations.

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Texas law requires any person or company providing electronic access control services to be properly licensed through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau (PSB).

Company Licenses

Class D - Electronic Access Control Device Company: Required if your company exclusively installs or maintains electronic access control devices.

Requirements include:

• FBI criminal background check and fingerprinting
• Evidence of financial stability
• Comprehensive liability insurance (minimum $200,000)
• Pass the Class D examination

Class B - Combination License: Available for companies that provide multiple security services including electronic access control, alarm systems, and camera/CCTV systems. This is often the preferred option for full-service low voltage contractors.

Individual Installer License

Technicians must hold an Electronic Access Control Device Installer license and be registered under a licensed company. Requirements include:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Pass background check
• Complete required training
• Register under a licensed Class D or Class B company
• Carry pocket card on person at all times during work

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

Permit Fees

Houston Electronic Locks Permit fees are based on the number of door tags (devices) installed:

Number of Tags/Devices	Base Fee	Notes
1-5 tags	$80.41	Small installations
6-10 tags	$114.86	Medium installations
11-15 tags	$172.29	Larger installations
16+ tags	Contact permitting	Fees scale with quantity

Note: Administrative fees may be added. A door tag must be displayed per device and per floor.

Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

Houston requires comprehensive documentation for electronic locks permits. Gather the following before applying:

• Plans with specifications
• One-line diagram of system architecture
• Doors numbered legend
• Address matching application
• Total square footage listed
• Sprinkler system identification
• Total number of floors in building
• Scale size identified on drawings
• Existing door information
• Wiring declaration statement
• All re-entry floors listed

Step 2: Submit Application

Applications are submitted through two systems:

• iPermits: Submit the completed application
• ProjectDox: Submit plans and documentation

An Electronic Locks User Guide is available from the Houston Permitting Center for detailed instructions.

Step 3: Plan Review

The city reviews submitted documentation for compliance with:

• Houston building codes
• Fire safety codes
• Electrical codes
• Emergency egress requirements
• ADA accessibility standards

Step 4: Installation

After permit approval, install the access control system according to approved plans. Ensure:

• All electric door locking hardware is properly installed
• Software is configured and tested
• Emergency release functions properly
• Fire alarm integration works correctly (if applicable)

Step 5: Inspection

Schedule inspection with the Houston Permitting Center. Requirements:

• Licensed contractor must be present during inspection
• Building emergency exit system must be operational
• All devices must be installed and functioning
• Documentation must be available on-site

Contact Information

Houston Permitting Center
1002 Washington Avenue
Houston, TX 77002
Phone: 832-394-8802 (Burglar/Panic Alarm Inquiries)
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Online Resources:
Electronic Locks Permit Information

Harris County Requirements

For installations in Harris County outside Houston city limits, property owners must:

• Submit comprehensive documentation detailing design, installation, and maintenance plans
• Comply with national and state standards
• Follow local building codes
• Ensure system is functional and effective in controlling access

Contact the Harris County Sheriff Office Permits Division for specific requirements.

Code Compliance and Safety

Emergency Egress Requirements

All electronic access control installations must comply with life safety codes. Key requirements:

• Magnetic locks must release upon fire alarm activation
• Emergency egress must be maintained at all times
• Fail-safe vs fail-secure configurations must be appropriate for the application
• Push-to-exit buttons or request-to-exit devices required at egress doors

Fire Alarm Integration

Access control systems that lock egress doors typically require integration with the fire alarm system. When the fire alarm activates, mag-locks must release to allow free egress.

ADA Compliance

Access control systems must comply with ADA requirements including:

• Proper mounting heights for card readers and keypads
• Accessible hardware operation
• Power-operated doors where required

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to obtain required permits or non-compliance with regulations can result in:

• Fines and penalties from the city
• Stop-work orders
• Required removal or modification of installed systems
• Liability issues if safety codes are violated
• Loss of contractor licensing

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Verify license type: Ensure your company holds the appropriate Class D or Class B license before bidding jobs
• Count doors carefully: Accurate device counts prevent permit fee surprises
• Coordinate with fire alarm: Plan fire alarm integration early in the project
• Document everything: Keep copies of permits, inspection reports, and as-built drawings
• Test emergency release: Thoroughly test fire alarm integration before inspection
• Know the AHJ: Building requirements can vary—verify with the Authority Having Jurisdiction
• Schedule inspections strategically: Have all work complete before requesting inspection

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

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Related Permit Guides

• Texas Low Voltage Contractor License Guide
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Houston, Texas
• Fire Alarm Permit Requirements in Houston, Texas

Official Resources

• Houston Electronic Locks Permit
• Texas DPS Private Security Licensing
• City of Houston Code of Ordinances
• Harris County Permits