Access Control Permit Requirements in Lake County, Indiana

Low voltage contractors installing access control systems in Lake County, Indiana need to understand local permit requirements and building codes. This guide covers everything from contractor licensing to egress requirements for electronic door locks and card access systems in Northwest Indiana.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone systems. Basic access control installations typically do not require dedicated permits in Lake County. However, permits may be required when the work involves electrical modifications, fire alarm integration, or structural changes. Contractors must be licensed per Ordinance #1628.

When Are Permits Required for Access Control?

Lake County requires permits for access control projects when:

• Electrical work: New circuits or panel modifications
• Fire alarm integration: Systems interfacing with fire detection
• Structural modifications: Door frame reinforcement or new openings
• New construction: Access control as part of building permit package

What Building Code Requirements Apply?

Access control systems in Lake County must comply with Indiana Building Code egress requirements:

Access-Controlled Egress Doors

• Sensor requirement: Egress-side sensor must detect approaching occupants
• Automatic unlock: Doors unlock upon sensor activation or power loss
• Manual override: Push button required 40" to 48" above floor, within 5 feet of doors
• Signage: "PUSH TO EXIT" sign clearly visible
• 30-second unlock: Doors remain unlocked minimum 30 seconds after manual release
• Fire alarm integration: Building fire alarm must automatically unlock doors

Electromagnetic Lock Requirements

Electromagnetic locks on egress doors require:

• Request-to-exit (REX) switch or electronic touch sensor
• Must be allowed by building occupancy classification
• De-energize to release when power fails
• Not allowed in every type of building

Panic Hardware Requirements

Panic hardware or fire exit hardware required for:

• Group H occupancy doors
• Rooms with occupant load of 50+ in Group A or E occupancies
• Assembly, educational, and hazardous use areas

What Contractor Requirements Apply?

Lake County has specific contractor licensing requirements:

• Contractor License Ordinance #1628: Must be licensed to work in Lake County
• Testing requirement: Licensing exams administered by Plan Commission
• Online portal: Access permits.lakecountyin.gov
• Annual renewal: Through Contractor Dashboard

For complete Indiana licensing information, see our Indiana Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

How Do You Apply for Permits?

When permits are required for access control projects:

1. Access online portal: Visit Lake County Permits Portal
2. Select permit type: Choose electrical or building as applicable
3. Pay filing fee: $3.50 application fee online
4. Submit documentation: Plans showing device locations and egress compliance
5. Pay permit fee: Cash/check in person or credit card online
6. Schedule inspections: After installation completion

Contact Information

Department	Contact
Lake County Plan Commission	lakecountyin.gov
Building Department Forms	Forms Index
Online Permits	permits.lakecountyin.gov

What Are the Fees and Timeline?

Fee Type	Amount	Notes
Online Filing Fee	$3.50	Covers online system
Permit Fee	Varies	Based on project scope
Contractor License	Per Ordinance #1628	Annual renewal

Note: Permits must be picked up within 30 days of approval. Construction must start within 6 months of permit issuance.

What Are Residential vs Commercial Differences?

Residential Access Control

• Smart locks and keypads generally require no permits
• Must use licensed contractor per Ordinance #1628
• Electrical permit only if adding new circuits
• No fire alarm integration typically required

Commercial Access Control

• Must meet Indiana Building Code egress requirements
• Fire alarm integration often required
• Panic hardware for high-occupancy spaces
• ADA compliance for accessibility
• Healthcare facilities have special requirements

Special Occupancy Requirements

Healthcare (Group I-2)

Special egress locks permitted with clinical need, requiring:

• Automatic sprinkler or smoke/heat detection system
• Unlock on sprinkler/fire detection activation
• Unlock on power loss
• Remote unlock capability from fire command center or nursing station
• Maximum one special egress lock before entering exit

Assembly (Group A)

Key-operated locking permitted with occupant load 300 or less, with:

• Readily distinguishable locked indicator
• Visible durable sign posted

Pro Tips from Contractors

• Get licensed first: Lake County enforces Ordinance #1628
• Know your occupancy: Egress requirements vary by building type
• Test fail-safe operation: Verify doors unlock on power loss
• Coordinate with fire alarm: Ensure proper integration and testing
• Document egress compliance: Keep records of sensor placement and signage
• Use online portal: permits.lakecountyin.gov streamlines applications

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when access control projects hit permits in Lake County before they reach bid boards?

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

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Related Permit Guides for Lake County

• Security Camera Permits in Lake County, Indiana
• Fire Alarm Permits in Lake County, Indiana

Additional Lake County permit guide for structured cabling coming soon.