Access Control Permit Requirements in Lane County, Oregon

Lane County encompasses the Eugene-Springfield metro area and stretches from the Oregon Coast to the Cascade Mountains. Access control installations range from university facilities at the University of Oregon to commercial buildings throughout the region. Understanding local permit requirements helps ensure compliant installations.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

It depends on the installation scope. Standalone electronic access control systems using low-voltage wiring typically don't require electrical permits in Lane County. However, permits are required when installations involve door hardware modifications, fire-rated door alterations, integration with fire alarm systems, or conduit installation.

When Are Permits Required for Access Control?

Access control installations may require permits based on scope:

Permit Required:

• Modifications to fire-rated doors or frames
• Electric strike or maglock installation requiring door prep
• Integration with fire alarm systems (fire code review required)
• Conduit installation for wiring
• Access control as part of tenant improvement projects
• Systems affecting building egress or life safety
• ADA automatic door operators

Typically Permit-Exempt:

• Standalone card readers and keypads
• Low-voltage wiring without conduit
• Access control panels and controllers
• Wireless lock installations
• Replacement of existing access hardware
• Intercom and video entry systems (standalone)

What About Fire-Rated Doors?

Access control on fire-rated doors requires coordination with the Eugene Springfield Fire Marshal:

• Electric strikes and maglocks must be listed for fire-rated assemblies
• Fire alarm integration required for fail-safe release on egress doors
• Deputy Fire Marshals review fire-rated door modifications
• Contact Fire Marshal at (541) 682-5411 for fire code questions

What Contractor License Do You Need in Oregon?

Oregon requires proper licensing for access control installations:

• Limited Energy (LE) endorsement - Required CCB endorsement for low-voltage work
• General Contractor license - If scope includes door modifications
• Electrical contractor license - If conduit installation is required

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

How Do You Apply for a Permit?

When permits are required, submit to the appropriate Building Department:

City of Eugene

Building & Permit Services
99 W. 10th Avenue
Eugene, OR 97401
Phone: (541) 682-5086

City of Springfield

Development & Public Works
225 Fifth Street
Springfield, OR 97477
Phone: (541) 726-3753

Lane County (Unincorporated Areas)

Lane County Building Safety
125 E 8th Avenue
Eugene, OR 97401
Building Message Line: (541) 682-4651

Apply online through the Lane County Services Portal.

Fire Code Review (if required)

Eugene Springfield Fire Marshal's Office
Phone: (541) 682-5411
By appointment only

Required Documentation

• Permit application
• Site plan showing door locations
• Equipment specifications and cut sheets
• Door schedule with fire ratings noted
• Wiring diagrams
• CCB license and insurance documentation

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Permit Type	Fee Range	Processing Time
Electrical (low-voltage)	$85-$150	1-3 business days
Building (door modifications)	Based on valuation	1-2 weeks
Fire Code Review	See fee schedule	2-4 weeks

What About Residential vs. Commercial Projects?

Residential Access Control

Home access control systems typically don't require permits:

• Smart locks and keypad entry systems
• Video doorbells and intercom systems
• Gate operators (may require electrical permit for power)
• Garage door controls

Commercial Access Control

Commercial installations may require permits when:

• Part of tenant improvement or new construction
• Affecting fire-rated doors or egress paths
• Integrated with building fire alarm system
• ADA compliance modifications required
• Inspection needed for certificate of occupancy

University of Oregon Considerations

The University of Oregon campus in Eugene has specific requirements:

• University facilities management may have additional standards
• State building requirements may apply to state-owned facilities
• Coordinate with UO Facilities Services for campus projects
• Security standards may exceed local code requirements

ADA Compliance Requirements

Access control installations must comply with ADA requirements:

• Card readers mounted 48" maximum height
• Automatic door operators may be required at accessible entrances
• Hardware must be operable without tight grasping or twisting
• Coordinate with building department for ADA-related permits

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Check fire ratings first - Know which doors are fire-rated before quoting; this affects hardware choices and permits
• Schedule Fire Marshal early - Appointments required; don't wait until the last minute
• Know your jurisdiction - Eugene, Springfield, and Lane County have separate permit processes
• Document everything - Take photos before and after door modifications
• Use online services - Lane County portal streamlines applications

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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

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

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Permit Guides for Lane County

• Security Camera Permits in Lane County
• Fire Alarm Permits in Lane County