Intercom System Permit Requirements in Idaho

Does Idaho require permits for intercom installation? Here's what contractors need to know about licensing through the Idaho Electrical Board, permits, and exemptions for intercom systems in the Gem State.

State Licensing Requirements

Idaho regulates low voltage work through the Idaho Electrical Board, part of the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL). Limited energy systems, including intercoms, fall under specific licensing categories.

Limited Energy Definition

Idaho defines limited energy electrical systems as:

• Fire and security alarm systems
• Class 2 and Class 3 signaling circuits
• Key card operators
• Nurse call systems
• Motor and electrical apparatus controls
• Other limited energy applications covered by the NEC

When Licensing is Required

A Limited Energy Limited Electrical License is required for anyone who installs, maintains, replaces, or repairs electrical wiring and equipment for limited energy systems in facilities other than one (1) or two (2) family dwellings.

License Types

License Type	Requirements	Fee
Limited Energy Installer	2 years (4,000 hours) experience; exam	$125
Limited Electrical Contractor	Employ licensed installer; application	$125 + $15 app

Exemptions

The following intercom work is exempt from Idaho licensing:

• Work in one (1) or two (2) family dwellings
• Homeowners working on their own residence
• Wireless/plug-in intercom devices
• Work by licensed journeyman or master electricians

When Permits ARE Required

Idaho permit requirements vary by local jurisdiction:

Scenario	State License?	Local Permit?	Notes
Residential (1-2 family)	No	Check local	Exempt from state licensing
Residential video doorbell	No	No	Wireless devices exempt
Multi-family (3+ units)	Yes	Usually Yes	Commercial rules apply
Commercial building	Yes	Yes	License and permit required
New construction	Depends	Yes	Part of building permit

Major Cities in Idaho

Boise

Idaho's capital and largest city. The Boise City Building Division handles permits. Commercial low voltage work requires state licensing and may require local permits. State license verification is enforced. Significant commercial and residential intercom demand.

Meridian

One of the fastest-growing cities. Meridian Building Department handles permits. Strong residential growth creates intercom demand. Commercial development increasing. State licensing requirements apply.

Nampa

Growing city in the Treasure Valley. Nampa Building Department manages permits. Commercial projects require state licensing. Residential 1-2 family is exempt from state licensing.

Idaho Falls

Largest city in eastern Idaho. Idaho Falls Building Department handles permits. Industrial and commercial development creates demand. Idaho National Laboratory nearby creates institutional opportunities.

Pocatello

Idaho State University location. Pocatello Building Department manages permits. Institutional and commercial intercom demand. State licensing requirements apply for commercial work.

Commercial vs Residential

Residential Intercom (1-2 Family)

Work in one or two-family dwellings:

• No state license required
• Local permits may or may not be required
• Homeowners can perform their own work
• Professional installation still recommended
• Must follow NEC requirements

Commercial and Multi-Family Intercom

Work in commercial or 3+ unit residential:

• Limited Energy license required
• Must be employed by licensed contractor
• Local permits typically required
• Inspections may be required
• Supervision requirements apply

License Application Process

Limited Energy Installer

1. Experience: Document 2 years (4,000 hours) in limited energy work
2. Application: Submit to Idaho DOPL
3. Examination: Pass the limited energy exam
4. Fee: $125 license fee

Limited Electrical Contractor

1. Employ licensed installer: At least one limited energy installer on staff
2. Application: Submit contractor application
3. Fee: $15 application + $125 license fee

Supervision Requirements

Limited energy installations must be supervised by:

• Journeyman electrician
• Master electrician
• Limited energy installer

Installation Best Practices

1. Verify licensing: Ensure your license covers the work type and location
2. Check building classification: 1-2 family vs. commercial/multi-family
3. Get local permits: Contact city/county building department
4. Follow NEC: All installations must comply with Article 725
5. Document work: Keep records for warranty and compliance

Contact Information

Idaho Electrical Board
Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses
Email: TradeLicensing@dopl.idaho.gov
Phone: (208) 334-3233

Related Permits You May Need

• Access Control Permits in Idaho
• Security Camera Permits in Idaho
• Burglar Alarm Permits in Idaho
• Fire Alarm Permits in Idaho

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to install intercoms in Idaho?

For commercial and multi-family (3+ units), yes—you need a Limited Energy license. For one or two-family residential, no state license is required, though you should still follow NEC requirements.

Can I work on residential homes without a license?

Yes. Idaho exempts one and two-family dwellings from limited energy licensing requirements. However, local permits may still be required, and work must comply with the NEC.

What's the difference between installer and contractor licenses?

An installer can perform the work but must be employed by a licensed contractor. A contractor license allows you to operate a business and employ installers.

Do I need separate licenses for each city?

No. The Idaho limited energy license is statewide. However, local business licenses and permits may be required in each jurisdiction.

Find Intercom Projects in Idaho

Looking for intercom installation opportunities in Idaho? LVN Signal tracks construction permits and bids across Idaho, alerting you to projects the moment they're filed.

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Last updated: February 2026. Requirements may change. Always verify with Idaho DOPL and local building departments before beginning work.