Access Control Permit Requirements in Lakewood, Colorado

Quick Answer: Access control system installations in Lakewood, Colorado typically do not require a separate permit when operating below 50 volts. However, electric gate systems, electric fences with access control features, and installations requiring electrical work above 50 volts will need appropriate permits from the City of Lakewood Building Division.

When Are Permits Required for Access Control in Lakewood?

Lakewood follows Colorado's approach to low voltage work, where most access control systems fall under the 50-volt exemption. Here's when you do and don't need permits:

Permits Generally NOT Required:

• Card reader and credential systems operating below 50V
• Keypad entry systems
• Standalone door controllers
• Magnetic door locks powered by low voltage transformers
• Intercom systems with electric release
• Biometric access readers

Permits ARE Required:

• Electric gate operators (motor-operated gates)
• Electric fences with access control integration
• Systems requiring new electrical circuits above 50V
• Automated barrier systems
• Access control connected to fire alarm systems
• Work in rights-of-way or affecting building structures

Electric Fence Access Control Requirements

Lakewood has specific regulations for electric fences with access control features:

• Fire Department Registration: Required before installation or use of any electrified fence
• Controller Placement: The electric fence controller and emergency key safe must be in a single accessible location
• Knox Box Required: Properties must have a Knox Box or similar approved device for emergency access
• Registration Forms: Submit completed registration to the Fire Chief using provided forms

West Pierce Fire and Rescue and Lakewood Police Department personnel are authorized to disable electric fences to gain emergency access if the Knox Box is absent or nonfunctional.

Contractor Licensing Requirements

Colorado does not have a statewide low voltage contractor license, but Lakewood requires contractors to be properly credentialed:

• Business License: All contractors must have a valid Lakewood business license
• General Contractor License: Required for work involving structural modifications
• Electrical Contractor License: Required if access control work involves electrical modifications above 50V
• Insurance: Contractors should carry liability insurance and be bonded

For comprehensive information on Colorado contractor requirements, see our Colorado Low Voltage Contractor License Guide.

Permit Application Process

When permits are required, follow this process:

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

• Site plan showing equipment locations
• System specifications and equipment cut sheets
• Electrical load calculations (if applicable)
• Property owner authorization

Step 2: Submit Application

Apply through Lakewood's eTRAKiT online portal or visit:

City of Lakewood Planning Division
480 S. Allison Parkway
Lakewood, CO 80226
Phone: (303) 987-7500

Step 3: Pay Fees and Schedule Inspection

Once approved, pay applicable fees and coordinate inspection scheduling.

Fees and Timeline

Permit Type	Estimated Fee	Processing Time
Electric Gate Permit	$75-150	5-10 business days
Electric Fence Registration	Contact Fire Dept	1-2 weeks
Electrical Permit (if required)	Based on valuation	3-5 business days
Building Permit (structural)	Based on valuation	2-4 weeks

Fees subject to change. Contact Lakewood Building Division for current rates.

Residential vs. Commercial Access Control

Residential Projects

Most residential access control in Lakewood is straightforward:

• Smart locks, keypads, and video intercoms generally need no permits
• Driveway gate operators may require permit depending on power requirements
• Electric fences require Fire Department registration regardless of size
• HOA approval may be required in planned communities

Commercial Projects

Commercial access control has additional considerations:

• ADA compliance required for all public-facing entrances
• Integration with fire alarm systems requires fire department review
• Parking garage access may need traffic engineering review
• Server room and restricted area systems should meet building code egress requirements
• Emergency release on all access-controlled egress doors required

Fire and Life Safety Requirements

Access control systems in Lakewood must comply with fire and life safety codes:

• Emergency Egress: All access-controlled doors on egress paths must release upon fire alarm activation
• Fail-Safe vs. Fail-Secure: Exterior doors typically fail-secure; egress doors must fail-safe
• Power Failure: Systems must allow free egress during power outages
• Integration: Fire alarm interface required for doors on evacuation routes

West Metro Fire Protection District has jurisdiction over fire-related requirements in Lakewood.

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Document Everything: Even when permits aren't required, keep records of installations for future reference
• Check with the City First: When in doubt, contact Lakewood Building Division before starting work
• Coordinate with Fire: For any system connecting to fire alarms, engage West Metro Fire early
• Consider Future Expansion: Install conduit and infrastructure for future access points during initial installation
• Test Thoroughly: Ensure emergency release functions work properly before final sign-off

Common Access Control Systems in Lakewood

Popular access control technologies installed in the Lakewood area:

• Proximity Card Systems: HID, AWID, and similar credential-based entry
• Mobile Credentials: Smartphone-based access using Bluetooth or NFC
• Video Intercom: Systems combining video surveillance with remote door release
• Biometric Readers: Fingerprint and facial recognition systems
• Telephone Entry: Call-based systems for multi-tenant buildings
• Gate Operators: Slide gates, swing gates, and barrier arms

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides

• Lakewood Security Camera Permit Requirements
• Lakewood Fire Alarm Permit Requirements
• Denver Access Control Permit Requirements
• Colorado Low Voltage Contractor License Guide

Official Resources

• City of Lakewood Permits & Licenses
• Lakewood eTRAKiT Online Portal
• Lakewood Building and Construction Permits