Access Control Permit Requirements in Johnson County, Kansas

Installing access control systems in Johnson County, Kansas requires understanding both county-wide requirements and the specific rules of individual cities within the county. Johnson County encompasses major cities like Olathe, Overland Park, Shawnee, and Lenexa, each with their own permitting processes. This guide covers everything contractors and property owners need to know about permits, licensing, and compliance for access control installations.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Usually no for standalone low-voltage access control. Most access control installations in Johnson County do not require building permits when the work involves only low-voltage wiring for card readers, keypads, and electronic locks. However, permits are required when work involves new 120V electrical circuits, fire alarm integration, or structural door modifications. Projects within cities require permits through those cities rather than the county.

Understanding Johnson County's Jurisdiction

Johnson County's Building Codes division issues permits only for projects in unincorporated Johnson County. If your project is within a city, obtain permits through that city:

• Olathe: City of Olathe Building Codes
• Overland Park: City of Overland Park
• Shawnee, Lenexa, Prairie Village: Contact respective city building departments

When Is a Permit Required for Access Control?

Permits are required when access control installations involve:

• New electrical circuits: Running 120V power for door controllers, electric strikes, or magnetic locks
• Fire alarm integration: Access control connected to fire alarm systems for emergency egress release
• Fire door hardware: Any work affecting fire-rated door assemblies
• Structural modifications: Cutting door frames, modifying walls, or installing hardware requiring structural changes
• Commercial tenant improvements: Access control as part of larger buildout projects

What Access Control Work Is Typically Exempt?

Based on Johnson County codes and NEC standards, these installations typically do not require permits:

• Card readers and keypads operating on low-voltage circuits
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) access control devices
• Standalone battery-powered smart locks
• Wireless access control devices
• Network cabling (Cat5e/Cat6) for IP-based access control
• Door position sensors and request-to-exit devices

Overland Park Specific Exemption

In Overland Park, low-voltage wiring less than 12 volts does not require a permit. This covers many basic access control readers and sensors.

What License Do You Need to Install Access Control in Johnson County?

Licensing requirements depend on the scope of work.

Low-Voltage Access Control Work

For access control installations that don't require electrical permits, Johnson County does not require a specific contractor license. However, contractors should:

• Register their business with the Kansas Secretary of State
• Obtain appropriate liability insurance
• Follow all applicable building codes

For more details on Kansas licensing requirements, see our Kansas Low Voltage License Guide.

Electrical Contractor License

When access control work requires electrical permits, you'll need a Johnson County Class DE (Electrical) license:

• Passing an approved ICC or Prometric examination
• Proof of general liability insurance
• Workers' compensation coverage
• One-time application fee: $100
• License fee: $225

Fire Alarm Integration

If access control integrates with fire alarm systems for egress release, you'll need a Johnson County Class DFA (Fire Alarm) license requiring:

• NICET Fire Alarm Systems Level III or Level IV Certification, OR
• ICC examination score of 75% or higher

Homeowner Exemption

Homeowners can work on their own owner-occupied residence without a contractor license. The residence must be for the owner's use only—not built for sale or lease. Any subcontractors hired must have an active Johnson County Contractor's License.

How Do You Apply for an Access Control Permit?

If your installation requires a permit in unincorporated Johnson County:

1. Create an account: Register at the Johnson County Online Permitting Portal
2. Submit application: Complete the electrical permit application
3. Provide documentation: Include system specifications, door schedules, and power requirements
4. Pay permit fees: Fees based on project scope
5. Schedule inspection: Request inspection upon completion

Note: As of January 1, 2020, all building permit applications must be submitted through the customer portal.

Residential vs Commercial Access Control Requirements

Residential Installations

Most residential access control installations do not require permits:

• Smart locks (August, Schlage, Yale)
• Video doorbell systems with electronic locks
• Keypad entry systems
• Garage door controllers
• Wireless access control devices

Commercial Installations

Commercial projects have additional considerations:

• ADA compliance: Automatic door operators must meet accessibility requirements
• Fire code compliance: Egress doors must release upon fire alarm activation or power failure
• Exit device requirements: Panic hardware per building occupancy type
• Delayed egress: Special requirements for delayed egress locks in certain occupancies
• Contractor licensing: Licensed contractors required for permitted work

Pro Tips for Access Control Contractors in Johnson County

Based on experience working in Johnson County, here are practical recommendations:

• Verify jurisdiction first: Determine if the project is in unincorporated Johnson County or within a city. This affects which permitting office to contact.
• Check city-specific exemptions: Overland Park's 12V exemption may differ from other cities.
• Use the online portal: All Johnson County permits require online submission since January 2020.
• Document low-voltage work: Keep records showing your installation uses Class 2 circuits to demonstrate permit exemption if questioned.
• Fire alarm integration requires DFA license: Any connection to fire alarm circuits for egress release requires the Class DFA license with NICET certification.
• Coordinate with door hardware: Electric strikes and mag locks on fire-rated doors require fire-rated hardware—verify listings.

Stay Ahead of Commercial Projects

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Related Permit Guides for Johnson County, Kansas

• Security Camera Permits in Johnson County, KS
• Fire Alarm Permits in Johnson County, KS

Contact Information

For permit and licensing questions:

• Johnson County Building Codes: jocogov.org/department/building-codes | 913-715-2200
• Johnson County Contractor Licensing: jocogov.org | 913-715-2233
• Online Permitting Portal: Online Portal
• Permits & Licenses Guide: jocogov.org/permits-and-licenses-guide

Last updated: January 2026. Permit requirements change periodically. Always verify current requirements with Johnson County or your city before beginning work.