Security Camera Permit Requirements in Johnson County, Iowa

Planning to install security cameras or video surveillance systems in unincorporated Johnson County, Iowa? This guide covers permit requirements, contractor licensing, and the application process for CCTV, IP cameras, and video surveillance installations in the county's jurisdiction.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone security cameras. Johnson County Planning, Development and Sustainability does not typically require permits for low voltage security camera installations that don't involve structural modifications or new electrical circuits. Contact the Building Services department to confirm for your specific project.

What Is Considered Security Camera Work?

Security camera installations in Johnson County include:

• CCTV analog camera systems
• IP network camera installations
• Video surveillance with NVR/DVR recording
• PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera systems
• Video doorbell and intercom systems
• License plate recognition (LPR) cameras
• Commercial video management systems

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Johnson County Building Services handles permits for unincorporated areas:

Permits Required

• New electrical circuits: Line voltage work for power supplies
• Structural modifications: Pole installations or building modifications
• Commercial new construction: Part of overall building permit package
• Outdoor structures: Equipment enclosures requiring permits

Typically Exempt

• Standalone camera systems: Low voltage installations without structural work
• PoE cameras: Powered over Ethernet on existing network
• Wireless cameras: Battery or solar powered
• Minor repairs: Replacement of existing equipment

Do You Need a State License for Security Cameras?

Iowa DIAL regulates alarm contractors under Iowa Code Chapter 100C. Security cameras have exemptions:

Installation Type	State License Required?
Standalone CCTV/IP cameras	No - Video only, no monitoring
Cameras with local recording only	No - No external notifications
Cameras integrated with alarm system	Yes - Alarm Contractor License
Video verification alarm systems	Yes - Alarm Contractor License

For complete Iowa licensing requirements, see our Iowa Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

Construction Contractor Registration

All contractors earning $2,000+ annually must register with DIAL:

• Registration fee: $50 annually
• Applies to: All construction work including security installations

How Do You Apply for Johnson County Permits?

When permits are required:

Step 1: Access Online Portal

Johnson County uses the Citizenserve Online Portal for permit applications.

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

• Completed permit application
• Site plans showing camera locations
• Equipment specifications
• Electrical plans if line voltage work required

Step 3: Submit Application

Submit through the Citizenserve portal. Permit applications typically take 5-10 working days to process. Complete information speeds up review.

Step 4: Schedule Inspections

Request inspections after installation completion.

What Are the Permit Fees?

Johnson County permit fees:

Permit Type	Fee
Electrical permit	Based on job scope
Building permit	Based on valuation
Plan review	Included or additional

Contact: Johnson County Planning, Development and Sustainability
Website: johnsoncountyiowa.gov/pds/building-services

Residential vs Commercial Security Cameras

Residential Projects

• Doorbell cameras: No permit typically required
• Home surveillance: Low voltage exempt from electrical licensing
• Outdoor cameras: Verify mounting requirements
• DIY installation: Homeowner can do own work

Commercial Projects

• Retail surveillance: Document coverage for liability
• Parking lot cameras: Consider pole mounting permits
• Multi-tenant buildings: Coordinate with property management
• New construction: Include in overall permit package

Iowa Recording Laws for Security Cameras

• Video recording: Legal in public areas and property you control
• Audio recording: Iowa is a one-party consent state
• Employee notification: Post notices in workplaces with surveillance
• Privacy areas: No cameras where privacy is expected

What Codes Apply in Johnson County?

• Iowa State Electrical Code: Based on NEC 2023
• International Building Code (IBC)
• International Residential Code (IRC)
• Iowa Code Section 103.22(11): Class 2/3 circuit exemptions

Pro Tips for Johnson County Security Camera Projects

• Check jurisdiction: Iowa City has its own building department
• 5-10 day review: Allow adequate time for permit processing
• Complete applications: Thorough documentation speeds review
• Document everything: Keep records even for exempt installations
• Citizenserve portal: Use online system for faster processing
• Network planning: Ensure adequate bandwidth for IP cameras

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Johnson County

• Security Camera Permits in Iowa City
• Fire Alarm Permits in Iowa City
• Access Control Permits in Iowa City

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need a Permit for Security Cameras in Johnson County?

Generally no for standalone low voltage security cameras. Permits are required for associated electrical work, structural modifications, or when cameras are part of new construction.

What License Do I Need to Install Security Cameras in Iowa?

For standalone video surveillance without alarm monitoring, no state license is required beyond construction contractor registration ($50/year). If cameras integrate with monitored alarm systems, you need an Iowa Alarm Contractor License.

Does Johnson County Cover Iowa City?

No. Iowa City has its own building department. Johnson County Building Services covers unincorporated areas of the county.