Security Camera Permit Requirements in Laredo, Texas

Quick Answer: In Laredo, Texas, standalone security camera installations do not require a city permit. However, any security camera system connected to a monitored alarm that provides police response requires an alarm permit. Annual permit fees are $50 for residential and $100 for commercial properties. Fire alarm registration is required but free. All contractors installing security cameras must hold a Texas Class B Security Services Contractor license.

When Is a Permit Required?

Laredo requires alarm permits for systems that summon emergency response:

Permit Required

• Monitored burglar alarms: Any alarm providing police response requires a permit
• Audible alarms: Even non-monitored audible alarms require registration
• Panic alarms: Residential burglar alarm permits include panic alarm coverage
• Commercial systems: All monitored business security systems

Generally Exempt

• Standalone cameras: Security cameras that only record locally
• Self-monitored systems: DIY systems with no automatic police dispatch
• Fire alarms: Registration required but no permit fee

Texas Contractor Licensing Requirements

The Texas DPS has clarified that companies selling and installing cameras that transmit or store images over a computer network fall within Chapter 1702's definition of "alarm system." Professional installers must be properly licensed.

Required License: Class B Security Services Contractor

• Covers video surveillance, alarm systems, and electronic access control
• Both company and individual technicians must be licensed
• Regulated by Texas Private Security Bureau (DPS Regulatory Services Division)
• Always verify a company's TX DPS Private Security License number

For complete details on obtaining your Texas security contractor license, see our comprehensive guide: Low Voltage License Texas

Laredo Alarm Permit Application Process

Step 1: Determine Permit Type

• Residential Burglar Alarm: $50 annually (includes panic alarm)
• Commercial Alarm: $100 annually
• Fire Alarm: Free registration with Fire Marshal's Office

Step 2: Register Online or Contact Department

Online (Recommended):

Register through the Laredo alarm portal:
alarms.cityoflaredo.com

By Phone:

Bill & Collect Department: (956) 727-6414

In Person:

Laredo Alarm Enforcement Division
1102 Bob Bullock Loop
Laredo, TX 78042-6548

Step 3: Provide Required Information

• Property address
• Property owner/tenant contact information
• Emergency contact details
• Alarm company information
• Type of alarm system installed

Note: If registering online, your address will be validated against the database. If an account already exists for your location, you'll be prompted to contact customer service.

Contact Information

City of Laredo - Alarm Permits
1102 Bob Bullock Loop
Laredo, TX 78042-6548
Phone: (956) 727-6414
Website: cityoflaredo.com/departments/alarm-permits

Fees and Timeline

Item	Cost
Residential Burglar Alarm (Annual)	$50
Commercial Alarm (Annual)	$100
Fire Alarm Registration	Free
False Alarms (1st-3rd per 12 months)	No charge

Residential vs. Commercial Requirements

Residential Installations

For homeowners in Laredo:

• Permit fee: $50 annually (includes panic alarm coverage)
• Self-installation: Homeowners can install cameras on their own property
• Hiring a contractor: Must use a Texas Class B licensed contractor
• False alarm allowance: 3 free per 12-month period

Commercial Installations

Business owners should note:

• Permit fee: $100 annually per location
• Multiple locations: Each requires a separate permit
• Fire alarm: Must register with Fire Marshal's Office (no fee)
• Employee notification: Consider posting visible signage about surveillance

Fire Alarm Registration

Laredo requires fire alarm systems to be registered with the Fire Marshal's Office. Unlike burglar alarms, there is no permit fee for annual fire alarm registration. This ensures emergency services have accurate information about your property's fire protection systems.

Pro Tips for Laredo Security Camera Projects

Based on contractor experience in the Laredo market:

• Border region considerations: Laredo's position as a major US-Mexico border crossing creates unique security needs. Commercial clients often require comprehensive perimeter surveillance.
• Extreme heat: South Texas summers push cameras to their limits. Specify equipment rated for 140°F+ operation with adequate cooling.
• Bilingual support: Many clients prefer Spanish-language documentation and support. Having bilingual technicians is valuable in this market.
• Logistics and warehousing: Laredo's massive trucking and logistics industry creates significant commercial security demand. These clients often need enterprise-grade solutions.
• Fire alarm registration: Don't forget to register fire alarms separately with the Fire Marshal's Office—it's free but required.

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

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Related Permit Guides

• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Houston, Texas
• Security Camera Permit Requirements in Dallas, Texas
• Low Voltage License Texas

Last updated: January 2026. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Requirements may change—always verify current regulations with the City of Laredo and the Texas DPS Private Security Bureau before beginning work.