Security Camera Permit Requirements in Jefferson County, Kentucky

Jefferson County and the City of Louisville operate as a merged city-county government known as Louisville Metro. This means the same permit requirements apply whether your project is in downtown Louisville or elsewhere in Jefferson County. Here's what contractors need to know about security camera installations throughout Jefferson County.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

For cameras alone, generally no. Stand-alone security camera systems in Jefferson County typically don't require building permits. However, if cameras are part of a monitored alarm system, alarm registration may be required through Louisville Metro Police Department. Contractors working in Jefferson County should maintain proper licensing through Louisville Metro.

Understanding Louisville Metro / Jefferson County

In 2003, Louisville and Jefferson County merged to form Louisville Metro Government. This means:

• Same permitting authority covers entire county
• Louisville Metro Construction Review handles all permits
• Same contractor licensing requirements throughout
• Louisville Metro Police handles alarm registration countywide

When Are Permits Required?

Louisville Metro Construction Review may require permits when:

• Camera system is part of new construction
• Installation requires electrical work over low voltage
• Systems connected to monitored alarm service (alarm registration)
• Installation involves structural modifications

Alarm Registration

Monitored alarm systems require registration with the Louisville Metro Police False Alarm Reduction Program.

Generally No Permit Required

• Stand-alone surveillance camera systems
• Self-monitored camera systems
• Low-voltage camera installations
• Residential cameras without alarm integration

What Contractor Licensing Is Required?

Louisville Metro requires contractor licensing for work throughout Jefferson County:

• Business registration with Louisville Metro
• Compliance with local licensing requirements
• Proper insurance coverage

Kentucky does not require a statewide license to install security cameras. For comprehensive state requirements, see our Kentucky Low Voltage License Guide.

How Do You Apply for Permits?

Submit through Louisville Metro's Online Permitting Portal:

1. Determine permit type: Building or electrical based on scope
2. Submit application: Online or at Construction Review office
3. Pay fees: Based on project scope
4. Schedule inspection: If required

Contact Information:

• Louisville Metro Construction Review: (502) 574-3321
• Address: 444 S. 5th Street, Louisville, KY 40202
• Online Portal: louisvilleky.gov/government/construction-review

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Service	Fee	Timeline
Building Permit (when required)	Based on valuation	7-14 business days
Electrical Permit	$50-200	3-7 business days
Alarm Registration	Contact LMPD	Upon application

Coverage Areas in Jefferson County

Louisville Metro Government covers all of Jefferson County including:

• Downtown Louisville
• East End (St. Matthews, Jeffersontown, Middletown)
• South End (Fairdale, Valley Station)
• West End (Shively, Portland)
• Highlands, Germantown, NuLu
• All unincorporated areas of Jefferson County

Pro Tips for Jefferson County Contractors

• Louisville Metro = Jefferson County: Same rules apply throughout the merged government
• One permitting authority: Louisville Metro Construction Review handles everything
• Alarm registration countywide: LMPD False Alarm Program covers all of Jefferson County
• No separate county permits: Don't look for separate Jefferson County offices—use Louisville Metro
• State licensing not required: Kentucky has no statewide security camera license

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security projects hit permits in Jefferson County before they reach bid boards?

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides

• Security Camera Permits in Louisville
• Fire Alarm Permits in Jefferson County
• Access Control Permits in Jefferson County
• Structured Cabling Permits in Jefferson County

Last updated: January 2025. Jefferson County and Louisville operate as Louisville Metro Government with unified permitting.