Security Camera Permit Requirements in Lane County, Oregon

Lane County encompasses the Eugene-Springfield metro area and stretches from the Oregon Coast to the Cascade Range. Whether you're installing security cameras at a commercial facility in Eugene or a rural property near Florence, understanding local permit requirements keeps your projects compliant.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Permit?

Generally no for standalone security camera installations. Lane County does not require electrical permits for low-voltage security camera systems that don't involve conduit installation. However, permits may be required when cameras are part of larger construction projects or when installation involves electrical work beyond simple low-voltage wiring.

When Are Permits Required for Security Cameras?

Most security camera installations in Lane County are permit-exempt, but certain situations trigger permit requirements:

Permit Required:

• Conduit installation for camera wiring (electrical permit)
• Penetrations through fire-rated walls or ceilings
• Camera systems as part of tenant improvement or new construction
• Installations requiring inspection for certificate of occupancy
• Pole-mounted cameras requiring structural foundations
• Systems with integrated access control requiring door modifications

Typically Permit-Exempt:

• Surface-mounted camera installations
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) camera systems
• Wireless security cameras
• Adding cameras to existing infrastructure
• NVR/DVR equipment installation
• Low-voltage cabling without conduit
• Coaxial cable for CATV-type systems

What Contractor License Do You Need in Oregon?

Oregon requires contractors performing security camera installations to hold a valid Construction Contractors Board (CCB) license:

• Limited Energy (LE) endorsement - Required for low-voltage security system work
• Residential Specialty Contractor - May perform work on residential or small commercial structures
• Commercial Specialty Contractor - For larger commercial installations

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

How Do You Apply for a Permit in Lane County?

When permits are required for your security camera installation, Lane County Building Safety handles the application process:

Online Application

Apply through the Lane County Services Portal for permit applications and scheduling inspections.

Contact Information

Lane County Building Safety
125 E 8th Avenue
Eugene, OR 97401
Building Message Line: (541) 682-4651
Building Official: (541) 682-6980

Electrical Inspectors:
Gavin Quick: (541) 682-6975
Bill Wilcox: (541) 682-2375

Required Documentation

• Completed permit application
• Site plan showing camera locations
• CCB license number and proof of insurance
• Equipment specifications
• Wiring diagrams for complex installations

What Are the Fees and Processing Times?

Permit Type	Fee Range	Processing Time
Electrical (with conduit)	$85-$175+	1-3 business days
No Plan Review Required	Base fees apply	Same day possible
With Plan Review	Additional fees	2-4 weeks

What About Residential vs. Commercial Projects?

Residential Security Cameras

Home security camera installations in Lane County typically don't require permits unless:

• Installing conduit runs through walls
• Penetrating fire-rated garage separations
• Part of new construction or major remodel
• Requiring electrical panel modifications

Commercial Security Cameras

Commercial installations may require permits when:

• Part of tenant improvement scope
• Requiring structural modifications for camera mounts
• Integrated with fire alarm or access control systems
• County inspection needed for occupancy certificate

Oregon Video Surveillance Laws

Beyond permits, Oregon has specific laws governing security camera use:

• Public areas - Video surveillance is legal in entrances, hallways, parking lots, and other areas without privacy expectation
• Private areas prohibited - No cameras in restrooms, break rooms, or areas where privacy is expected
• Intimate areas - Recording another person's intimate area without consent is illegal
• Audio recording - Oregon requires all-party consent for recording oral conversations

Inform clients about audio recording limitations when cameras have built-in microphones.

Cities Within Lane County

Several incorporated cities within Lane County handle their own permits:

• Eugene - (541) 682-5283 (largest city, University of Oregon)
• Springfield - (541) 726-3753
• Florence - Coastal community
• Cottage Grove - South Lane County

Verify whether your project falls under county or city jurisdiction before applying.

Pro Tips from Local Contractors

• Use online portal - Lane County Services Portal streamlines permit applications
• Check jurisdiction first - Eugene and Springfield have separate permit processes
• Document audio capabilities - If cameras have audio, inform clients about Oregon's consent laws
• Rural considerations - Lane County covers large rural areas; verify service availability
• Keep records - Maintain installation documentation for warranty and service calls

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when security camera 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

More Lane County permit guides coming soon for fire alarm, access control, and structured cabling installations.