Burglar Alarm Permit Requirements in Indiana

Does Indiana require permits and licensing for burglar alarm installation? Here's what contractors need to know about regulations and compliance in the Hoosier State.

State Licensing Requirements

Indiana is unique in having no state-level contractor licensing:

• No statewide alarm contractor license
• No statewide alarm company registration
• No state-mandated employee background checks
• All regulation is at the local level

Local Contractor Licensing

Each Indiana city/county handles contractor licensing independently:

Indianapolis

• Contractor licensing required through city
• Division of Planning and Development handles licenses
• May require electrical contractor license for alarm work
• Contact Indianapolis Contractor Licensing for specifics

Fort Wayne

• Building Department handles contractor licensing
• Check with Development Services for alarm contractor requirements

Evansville

• Has specific "Fire Alarm Contractor" license category
• Building Commission handles licensing
• Low voltage alarm work may fall under this category

Alarm User Permits (Local)

Many Indiana cities require alarm user permits:

Indianapolis

• Permit required: Yes, alarm registration
• Fee: $25-$50
• False alarms: Fines after 3rd false alarm
• Registration: Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department

Fort Wayne

• Permit required: Yes
• False alarms: Escalating fines
• Registration: Fort Wayne Police Department

South Bend

• Permit required: Yes
• False alarms: Fines apply
• Registration: South Bend Police Department

Evansville

• Permit required: Yes
• False alarms: Ordinance with fines
• Registration: Evansville Police Department

False Alarm Management

Indiana cities actively manage false alarms. Help customers avoid fines:

Common Causes

1. User error (wrong codes)
2. Motion sensors triggered by pets
3. Loose contacts on doors/windows
4. Environmental factors
5. Low batteries

Installation Best Practices

• Use pet-immune sensors when appropriate
• Position sensors away from HVAC
• Test thoroughly before leaving
• Provide comprehensive training
• Document training with acknowledgment

Commercial vs Residential

Residential Burglar Alarms

• No state license required
• Local contractor license may be required
• Alarm user permit typically required in cities
• Homeowner can install their own system
• Insurance may require UL listing for discounts

Commercial Burglar Alarms

• No state license required
• Most cities require contractor licensing
• Permits typically required
• Insurance underwriters may specify requirements
• UL certification may be required

Working Across Jurisdictions

For alarm contractors working across Indiana:

• Maintain list of each city's contractor requirements
• Inform customers about local alarm permit requirements
• Track license renewals by jurisdiction
• Budget for multiple license fees
• Verify requirements before each new jurisdiction

Business Requirements

Even without state licensing:

• Indiana business registration: Secretary of State
• Local business licenses: Required in most cities
• Insurance: General liability strongly recommended
• Workers' comp: Required if employees

Related Permits You May Need

• Fire Alarm Permits in Indiana
• Access Control Permits in Indiana
• Security Camera Permits in Indiana
• Intercom Permits in Indiana

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a state license for alarm work in Indiana?

No. Indiana has no statewide alarm contractor license. However, you likely need local licenses in each city where you work.

Does my customer need an alarm permit?

In most Indiana cities, yes. Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, South Bend, Evansville, and other cities require alarm user registration. Inform customers about this requirement.

How do I find out local requirements?

Contact the City Controller's office or Building Department in each jurisdiction. Requirements vary significantly between cities.

Can I work statewide with one license?

No. Indiana has no statewide license. You may need separate local licenses for each city or county.

Find Alarm Projects in Indiana

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

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