Security Camera Permit Requirements in Jackson, Mississippi

Installing security cameras in Jackson, Mississippi requires understanding both state licensing requirements and local building permit processes. Mississippi has specific licensing requirements for electronic protection system installers that apply statewide. This guide covers everything low-voltage contractors need to know about surveillance system installations in Jackson.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

License required, building permit depends on scope. Mississippi requires all installers of burglar alarms, video surveillance, or access control systems to be licensed through the State Fire Marshal's Office. Building permits may be required in Jackson for electrical work above 50V or structural modifications, but standalone low-voltage camera installations typically do not require a building permit.

What Is Considered Security Camera Work?

Security camera installations in Jackson include:

• IP camera systems with PoE (Power over Ethernet)
• Analog CCTV with coaxial cabling
• Wireless security camera systems
• Video doorbells and entrance cameras
• DVR and NVR recording systems
• Commercial surveillance with remote monitoring
• License plate recognition (LPR) cameras
• Video surveillance as part of electronic protection systems

Mississippi Electronic Protection Licensing Requirements

Mississippi requires state licensing for all security and surveillance installers through the Electronic Protection Systems Division under the State Fire Marshal's Office.

Class A License (Alarm Contracting Company)

Required for companies performing alarm/security installations:

• Mississippi work permit required
• Proof of liability insurance over $300,000
• Workers' compensation insurance
• All employees must pass background check
• No felony convictions for employees
• Must have at least one employee with Class B license
• Valid business location within Mississippi

Class B License (Alarm System Technician)

Individual license for system design, sales, installation, and service:

• Complete NBFAA Level 2 A&B Burglar Alarm training (or State Fire Marshal approved equivalent)
• Live within 150 miles of assigned office
• Two passport-size color photographs
• Fingerprinting at State Fire Marshal's Office
• Background check clearance

Class C License (Alarm System Installer)

Individual license for installation and service work:

• Complete NBFAA Level 1 Burglar Alarm training (or approved equivalent)
• Two passport-size photographs
• Fingerprinting at State Fire Marshal's Office
• Background check clearance

Licensing Contact Information

• Agency: Mississippi Electronic Protection Systems Division
• Address: 660 North Street, Suite 100-B, Jackson, MS 39202
• Phone: (601) 359-1066
• Fax: (601) 359-1076

For complete information on Mississippi licensing, see our Mississippi Low-Voltage Contractor License Guide.

When Are Building Permits Required?

The Jackson Building Permit Office handles construction permits:

Permits Generally Required:

• Electrical circuits above 50 volts for equipment power
• Dedicated 120V outlets for DVR/NVR systems
• Pole-mounted cameras requiring foundation work
• Conduit installations through structural elements
• Work involving fire-rated wall penetrations

Generally Exempt (Low-Voltage):

• PoE camera installations (under 50V)
• Wireless camera systems
• Battery-powered cameras
• Surface-mounted equipment
• Cat5e/Cat6 cable runs for IP cameras
• Coaxial cable for analog systems

How Do You Apply for Permits?

State License Process

1. Complete Training: NBFAA Level 1 or Level 2 certification
2. Gather Documents: Photos, proof of residency, training certificates
3. Submit Application: To Electronic Protection Systems Division
4. Pay Fees: Application fee plus $50 fingerprint processing
5. Complete Fingerprinting: At State Fire Marshal's Office
6. Await Background Check: Clearance required
7. Receive License: Upon approval

Building Permit Process (When Required)

1. Contact Building Permit Office: Verify permit requirements
2. Submit Application: With project details
3. Pay Fees: Based on project scope
4. Schedule Inspections: Upon completion

Jackson Building Permit Contact

• Website: Jackson Building Permits

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Item	Fee	Timeline
State license application	$1,000+ (varies by class)	4-6 weeks
Fingerprint processing	$50	Included in application
Building permit (when required)	Based on valuation	3-5 business days
License renewal	Contact division	Annual

Continuing Education Requirements

Mississippi requires ongoing education for license renewal:

• Hours Required: 12 hours per 12-month period
• Online Limit: Maximum 4 hours may be online courses
• Credit Definition: 50 minutes of attendance = 1 hour credit
• Approved Courses: Must be approved by State Fire Marshal

Residential vs. Commercial Security Cameras

Residential Projects

• State license still required for professional installers
• Homeowner-installed cameras do not require licensing
• Building permits typically not required for low-voltage work
• Privacy considerations apply for areas with reasonable privacy expectation

Commercial Projects

• State license mandatory for all professional work
• Class A company license required
• Building permits may be required for larger installations
• Integration with access control and alarm systems common
• Police integration programs available in Jackson

Jackson Police Camera Integration Program

Jackson has run programs where police can access private surveillance camera feeds when crimes are reported nearby. This is an opt-in program for residents and businesses.

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Get Licensed First: Mississippi actively enforces licensing—don't work without proper credentials
• Budget for Fees: Mississippi licensing fees exceed $1,000—factor this into your business plan
• Complete Training Early: NBFAA certification takes time—start before you need it
• Track CE Hours: Keep records of continuing education to avoid renewal issues
• 150-Mile Rule: Class B technicians must live within 150 miles of their assigned office
• Background Check: Felony convictions disqualify applicants—verify employee eligibility

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Jackson before they reach bid boards?

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

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Additional Resources

• Mississippi Electronic Protection Application (PDF)
• Jackson Building Permits
• Jackson Fire Prevention Code
• ESA Training Courses