Security Camera Permit Requirements in Kenton County, Kentucky

Installing security cameras in Kenton County requires understanding the local permitting landscape in Northern Kentucky. The county includes cities like Covington, Erlanger, and Independence, each with their own permit processes. For unincorporated areas and many municipalities, Planning and Development Services of Kenton County (PDSKC) handles building permits and inspections.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for cameras alone. Standalone security camera installations typically don't require permits in Kenton County. However, permits may be required when camera work involves electrical modifications, structural mounting, or is part of a larger construction project.

When Are Security Camera Permits Required?

Kenton County and its municipalities require permits when security camera work involves:

• New electrical circuits for camera power
• Structural modifications for pole or wall mounts
• Trenching for underground conduit runs
• Work included in broader construction permits
• Installations on historic properties (especially in Covington)

Work that typically does NOT require permits:

• IP cameras using existing network infrastructure
• PoE cameras on existing data drops
• Wireless camera systems
• Surface-mounted cameras with standard brackets
• Camera software and NVR configuration

Where Do You Apply for Permits?

Permit jurisdiction depends on location:

• Unincorporated Kenton County: PDSKC
• Covington: City of Covington Building Department
• Erlanger: City of Erlanger Building Department
• Independence: City of Independence Building Department
• Other municipalities: Check with local city hall

PDSKC Contact Information

Planning and Development Services of Kenton County
1840 Simon Kenton Way, Suite 3300
Covington, KY 41011
Phone: (859) 392-1420
Website: pdskc.org

What Licenses Do You Need in Kentucky?

Kentucky has favorable licensing for security camera contractors:

• No State Electrical License Required: Per KRS § 227A.030, low-voltage work under 50 volts is exempt from electrical licensing
• Local Occupational License: Required for businesses operating in Kenton County municipalities
• Insurance: General liability recommended for commercial work

For complete licensing details, see our Kentucky Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

How Do You Apply for Permits When Required?

When your project requires permits:

1. Determine Jurisdiction: Identify whether the property is in a city or unincorporated county
2. Contact Appropriate Office: PDSKC for county, city building department for municipalities
3. Submit Application: Complete permit application with project details
4. Provide Documentation:
   • Site plan showing camera locations
   • Electrical load calculations (if new circuits)
   • Mounting details for structural attachments
5. Pay Fees and Schedule Inspections

What Are Typical Permit Fees?

Permit Type	Fee Range
Low-Voltage Permit	$50 - $100
Electrical Permit	$75 - $150
Occupational License	Varies by municipality

How Long Does the Process Take?

Scenario	Timeline
No Permit Required	Start immediately
Simple Low-Voltage Permit	1-3 business days
Electrical Permit	3-5 business days
Historic District Review	2-4 weeks additional

Residential vs Commercial Requirements

Residential Security Cameras

Home camera installations in Kenton County are straightforward:

• No permits for most installations
• Use existing electrical outlets or PoE
• Consider neighbor privacy when positioning
• HOA rules may apply in some developments

Commercial Security Cameras

Commercial projects have additional considerations:

• Coordinate with property management
• May require electrical permits for dedicated circuits
• Consider integration with access control and fire systems
• Insurance documentation often required

Historic District Considerations

Kenton County has historic areas, particularly in Covington:

• MainStrasse Village Historic District
• Licking Riverside Historic District
• Seminary Square Historic District

For properties in historic districts, exterior camera installations may need design review. Contact the local planning office for guidance.

Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

• Check Jurisdiction First: Verify whether property is in a city or unincorporated county before applying
• Historic Properties: For older buildings in Covington, verify historic status before exterior work
• PoE Simplifies Permits: Using PoE cameras avoids electrical permit requirements
• Multiple Municipalities: If working across Kenton County, you may need licenses in multiple cities
• Document Locations: Provide clients with as-built drawings showing camera positions

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera projects hit permits in Kenton 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 for Kenton County

• Fire Alarm Permits in Kenton County
• Access Control Permits in Kenton County
• Structured Cabling Permits in Kenton County
• Security Camera Permits in Covington

Additional Resources

• PDSKC - Planning and Development Services
• City of Covington