Access Control Permit Requirements in Howard County, Maryland

Installing access control systems in Howard County requires understanding permit requirements and contractor licensing. This guide covers what contractors and building owners need to know about card reader, keypad, and electronic door lock permits in Howard County, Maryland.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Electrical permits are typically required. Access control installations involving electrical work require permits in Howard County. The Department of Inspections, Licenses and Permits processes electrical permits for proposed electrical work. Contact the Licenses & Permits Division at 410-313-2455 to verify requirements for your specific project.

What Types of Access Control Systems Are Covered?

This guide applies to electronic access control installations including:

• Card readers (proximity, smart card, magnetic stripe)
• Key fob and badge systems
• Keypad and PIN entry systems
• Biometric readers (fingerprint, facial recognition)
• Electric door strikes and magnetic locks
• Motorized gate operators
• Intercom and video intercom systems
• Visitor management systems

What Contractor Licenses Are Required?

Maryland Security Systems Agency License

The Maryland State Police requires a Security Systems Agency License for companies providing security systems services.

• Application fee: $150 (includes background check)
• Livescan fingerprints required
• $50,000 minimum liability insurance or fidelity bond
• Two character recommendations required

Howard County Electrical License

For electrical work, contractors must comply with Howard County electrical regulations. Users must have licenses linked to their Accela Citizens Access account to apply for permits.

For complete Maryland licensing information, see our Maryland Low Voltage License Guide.

How Do You Apply for a Permit?

Howard County accepts electronic submissions for all permit types through the Accela Citizens Access portal.

Application Process

1. Create an account on the Accela Citizens Access portal
2. Link your contractor license to your account
3. Select electrical permit application type
4. Submit project details and scope of work
5. Upload required drawings (paper drawings no longer accepted)
6. Pay applicable fees
7. Receive permit via email
8. Schedule inspection upon completion

Note: Paper permit applications and paper drawings are no longer accepted. All submissions must be electronic.

What Code Standards Apply?

Access control installations must comply with applicable codes:

• Howard County Electrical Regulations: Title 3, Subtitle 2 of the Code of Ordinances
• National Electrical Code (NEC): Current adopted edition
• NFPA 101 Life Safety Code: For egress requirements on mag locks
• ADA Requirements: For accessible entry systems

Egress Requirements

Magnetic locks on egress doors must:

• Release upon power failure (fail-safe)
• Release upon fire alarm activation
• Have clearly marked release mechanisms
• Not impede emergency egress

What Are the Fees and Timeline?

Item	Cost	Notes
Electrical Permit Application	$50	Plus additional fees based on scope
Permit Validity	6 months	From issuance date
Security Systems Agency License	$150	State license
Inspection	Included	With permit

For complete fee schedules, visit the Forms & Fees page.

Residential vs. Commercial Installations

Residential Access Control

• Smart locks and keypads may not require permits
• Battery-powered systems typically don't need electrical permits
• Hardwired systems may require electrical permits
• Contact county to verify specific requirements

Commercial Access Control

• Licensed contractor required
• Electrical permits typically required
• Must comply with egress codes for mag locks
• ADA accessibility requirements apply
• Fire alarm integration may be required
• Coordination with building management needed

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Go digital: Paper applications and drawings are no longer accepted
• Link your license: Must be linked to Accela account before applying
• Understand egress codes: Mag locks must fail-safe and release on fire alarm
• Plan for 6-month validity: Complete work before permit expires
• Coordinate with fire alarm: Access control often integrates with fire systems
• Contact the county: Call 410-313-2455 Option #4 for specific questions

Key Contacts

Howard County Department of Inspections, Licenses and Permits
Phone: 410-313-2455 Option #4
Website: howardcountymd.gov/inspections-licenses-permits

Licenses & Permits Division
Website: Licenses & Permits Division

Online Permit Portal
Accela Citizens Access

Forms & Fees
Forms & Fees

Maryland State Police Licensing
Security Systems Agency: mdsp.maryland.gov

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

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Related Permit Guides for Howard County

• Security Camera Permits in Howard County
• Fire Alarm Permits in Howard County